TRADOC PAMPHLET 600-4

The Soldier’s Blue Book

The Guide for Initial Entry Training Soldiers

June 2017
TRADOC PAMPHLET 600-4

23 June 2017

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY

United States Army Training and Doctrine Command

Fort Eustis, VA 23604-5701
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 i

Foreword

Welcome to America’s Army! You have taken the first step on a 

journey that I’m confident will change your life forever. Upon 

completion of your Basic Combat training you will earn the title 

“Soldier” and with continued honorable service you will always be 

a “Soldier for Life”. 

The Army you are joining is a time honored Profession that's the 

best in the world at what it does. It's comprised of magnificent 

Soldiers and Civilians who are out there every day making a 

difference in a very complex world.

The Army Values of loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, 

integrity, and personal courage are more than mere words that we 

recite. Taken together and integrated through an understanding 

and appreciation of the sacrifices made by the generations of 

Citizen-Soldiers who previously answered the call to defend 

America's freedoms...those shared values and beliefs become 

your moral and ethical identity as Soldiers and Trusted Army 

Professionals.”

Over the next several weeks, we will help you transition from a 

citizen volunteer to become a Trusted Army Professional, by 

developing your character, competence, commitment and teaching 

you what it means to be a Soldier who is physically and mentally 

ready to accomplish any assigned mission.” I’m confident that you 

are up to the task. I hope you will find this experience personally

and professionally rewarding, and, if you let it, it will set you on a 

path of continued success. So, let’s get started!

Anthony C. Funkhouser

Major General, U.S. Army

Commander, Center for Initial Military Training
ii TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Soldier Information

Name: ______________________________________

My Basic Combat Training (BCT)/One Station Unit 

Training (OSUT)/Advanced Individual Training (AIT)

Company Chain of Command: 

* Note: Use pencil

Company Commander: _______________________

First Sergeant: _______________________

Drill Sergeant/AITPSG _______________________

Drill Sergeant/AITPSG _______________________

Drill Sergeant/AITPSG _______________________

Instructor / Squad Leader: _______________________

Instructor / Squad Leader: _______________________

My mailing address: 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 iii

My Battle Buddy is...

_____________________________

My Sexual Harassment/Assault Response & 

Prevention (SHARP) Program Contacts: Fill 

in using a pencil upon arrival at BCT, AIT and/or OSUT, 

and first unit of assignment:

Unit Victim’s Advocate / SHARP Representatives:

Company: ___________________________

Battalion: ___________________________

Brigade: ___________________________

Notes: _______________________________________

Basic Combat Training (BCT) Calendar

This is a tool for you to record milestones (APFT, rifle 

marksmanship, FTX, etc.) and to count down the days until BCT 

Graduation. 
iv TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

BCT Calendar Monday Tuesday Wednesday

Week 1

Week 2

Week 3

Week 4

Week 5

Week 6

Week 7

Week 8

Week 9

Week 10
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 v

Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
vi TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Notes:

__________________________________________________

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__________________________________________________

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Department of the Army *TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Headquarters, United States Army

Training and Doctrine Command

Fort Eustis, VA 23604-5701

23 June 2017

The Soldier’s Blue Book

FOR THE COMMANDER:

OFFICIAL: SEAN B. MacFARLAND

Lieutenant General, U.S. Army

Deputy Commanding General/

 Chief of Staff

Senior Executive

Deputy Chief of Staff, G-6

History. This is a rapid action revision to United States 

Army Training and Doctrine Command Pamphlet 600-4. 

The portions affected by this revision are listed in the 

Summary of Change.

*This pamphlet supersedes TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4, dated 18 Jul 2016.
2 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Summary. This pamphlet is the guide for all Initial Entry 

Training (IET) Soldiers who enter our Army Profession. It 

provides an introduction to being a Soldier and Trusted 

Army Professional, certified in character, competence, and 

commitment to the Army. Throughout the Blue Book, 

Soldiers will read and learn about Army ethics and our

Values, Culture, History, Organizations, and Training they 

will receive. It provides assistance with pay issues, leave, 

Thrift Saving Plans (TSPs), and organizations that will be 

available to assist Families. The Soldier’s Blue Book is an 

inspectable item and will be carried at all times during 

BCT/OSUT, and AIT. 

Applicability. This pamphlet applies to all active Army, 

United States Army Reserve, and the Army National Guard 

enlisted IET conducted at service schools, Army Training 

Centers, and other training activities under the control of 

Headquarters Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC).

Proponent. The proponent for this pamphlet is TRADOC 

Commanding General United States Army Center for Initial 

Military Training (USACIMT) (ATMT-OP), (ATTN: Jim Rose)

210 Dillon Circle, Fort Eustis VA 23604-5701.

Supplementation. Users are invited to send comments and 

suggested improvements on Department of the Army (DA) 

Form 2028 (recommended Changes to Publications and 

Blank Forms) directly to the U.S. Army Center for Initial 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 3

Military Training (ATMT-OP), 210 Dillon Circle, Fort Eustis, 

VA 23604-5701. 

Distribution. This pamphlet will be distributed to the four 

training locations that conduct BCT and OSUT. This 

pamphlet is available electronically only on the TRADOC 

Homepage at http://www.tradoc.army.mil/tpubs. 

Summary of Change

TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 

The Soldier’s Blue Book 

This rapid action revision, dated 23 June 2017-

o Changes cover Picture

o Modifies the graduation requirements in Basic Combat 

Training and One Station Unit Training (chap 4)

o Modifies paragraph 8-1 Nutrition

o Adds “Manual of Applied Performance Skills (MAPS)” as 

Appendix B.
4 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

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TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 5

Table of Contents

Page

Foreword.........................................................................i

Soldier Information .......................................................ii

My Battle Buddy is... ...................................................iii

My Sexual Harassment/Assault Response & Prevention 

(SHARP) Program Contacts........................................iii

Basic Combat Training (BCT) Calendar.....................iii

Introduction ...................................................................9

Chapter 1 – The Army.................................................12

1-1. Why we have an Army...........................................13

1-2. What the Army uniform represents ........................16

1-3. Why we serve ........................................................17

1-4. The Army’s Motto – “This We’ll Defend”................18

1-5. Oath of Enlistment .................................................19

Chapter 2 – The Army as a Profession .....................21

2-1. The Army Profession .............................................21

2-2 What it means to be a Soldier.................................23

2-3. Who we are not......................................................23

2-4. The Army’s commitment to you .............................24

2-5. The journey begins ................................................26

Chapter 3 – The Reception Battalion ........................27

3-1. The Path ................................................................27

3-2. Critical information needed upfront........................30

3-3. The Battle Buddy System ......................................30

3-4. Army Values...........................................................32

3-5. Suicide Prevention.................................................35

3-6. The Soldier’s Creed and Warrior Ethos .................36
6 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Chapter 4 – BCT / OSUT / AIT ....................................40

4-1. What to expect.......................................................40

4-2. The training company – Your unit..........................40

4-3. Safe and Secure Environment...............................42

4-4. Drill Sergeants .......................................................43

4-5. The Soldierization process ....................................48

4-6. Military time............................................................49

4-7. Daily schedule........................................................50

4-8. Basic Combat Training (BCT)................................50

4-9. Warrior Tasks and Battle Drills ..............................52

4-10. BCT graduation requirements..............................54

4-11. AIT/OSUT ............................................................56

4-12. What is the difference between Drill Sergeants and 

AIT Platoon Sergeants?................................................58

Chapter 5 – Personal Appearance and Uniforms ....63

5-1. Personal appearance.............................................63

5-2. Army Combat Uniform (ACU) ................................72

5-3. Army Service Uniform (ASU) .................................78

5-4. Awards and Decorations........................................86

Chapter 6 – Critical Information Required for BCT / 

OSUT / AIT ...................................................................88

6-1. Rank Insignia .........................................................88

6-2. Customs and Courtesies .......................................94

6-3. Bugle Calls...........................................................101

6-4. Drill and Ceremonies ...........................................102

Chapter 7 – Physical Readiness..............................107

7-1. Army Physical Fitness Uniform (APFU)...............107

7-2. Army physical fitness test (APFT)........................109

7-3. APFT Standards ..................................................110
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 7

Chapter 8 – Health and Safety .................................114

8-1. Nutrition................................................................114

8-2. Sleep....................................................................122

8-3. Activity..................................................................124

8-4. Hygiene................................................................126

8-5. Ready and Resilient.............................................141

8-6. Chaplains .............................................................143

8-7. Risk management................................................143

Chapter 9 – Discipline...............................................145

9-1. Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ).............146

9-2. Equal opportunity policy.......................................149

9-3. Policy on relationships between Soldiers ............152

9-4. SHARP.................................................................158

9-5. The Army Ethic ....................................................170

9-6. Standards and Principles of Ethical Conduct ......175

Chapter 10 – Reference Material .............................178

10-1. The National Anthem .........................................178

10-2. The Army Song..................................................179

10-3. The Code of Conduct.........................................180

10-4. General Orders/Special Orders .........................182

10-5. Guard duty .........................................................183

10-6. Army Organizations ...........................................185

Chapter 11 – First Duty Station ...............................186

11-1. Where Will I Serve? ...........................................186

11-2. How can I prepare?............................................187

11-3. Promotions.........................................................187

11-4. Total Army Sponsorship Program (TASP) and Army 

Career Tracker (ACT) .................................................191

11-5. Soldier for Life Program.....................................194
8 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Appendix A – Army Resources ...............................195

A-1. Leave and Earnings Statement ..........................195

A-2. Managing personal finances ..............................198

A-3. Tri-Service Health Care (TRICARE)...................204

A-4. Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance (SGLI) .205

A-5. Dental .................................................................206

A-6. Army Emergency Relief......................................207

A-7. Soldier for Life and Credentialing .......................211

A-8. Information websites for family members...........215

Appendix B – Manual of Applied Performance Skills 

(MAPS)........................................................................219

Appendix C – Soldier’s Notes..................................267

Glossary.....................................................................273

Army Definitions .......................................................274
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 9

Introduction

Since 1775, the 

United States Army has exhibited unwavering courage, selfdiscipline, and advanced military training. Soldiers, like you,

have volunteered to serve and fight to protect their Families 

and friends from enemies that sought to do us harm, and to 

defend the ideals of our nation. Starting from humble 

beginnings in our quest for freedom, we have become the 

most powerful Army in the world. 

We are an Army made up of individuals, and the strength of 

each one of us contributes to the strength of 

the whole. We 

gain strength from 

training, and the 

basis for our 

training stems from 

a past deeply 

rooted in 

determination and 

adaptability.

From the formation 

of the Continental

Army in 1775 until Valley 

Forge, American forces were brave and fought 

with purpose, but were disorganized citizens fighting against 

highly trained and better organized British Soldiers. To win 

The “Blue Book”
10 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

the Revolutionary War, General George Washington’s men 

needed enhanced training, discipline, and esprit de corps. 

Seeking a solution, General Washington tasked Baron von 

Steuben with transforming the large group of hungry and 

exhausted men at Valley Forge into a disciplined fighting 

force. In the harsh Pennsylvania winter, Baron von Steuben 

instructed a company of future leaders in basic military 

movements and tactical skills; those individuals were the 

predecessors of our Drill Sergeants! 

He developed that cadre until they could–in turn–train the 

entire Revolutionary Army in the art of basic military 

maneuvers. Through their perseverance and sense of duty, 

these dedicated troops practiced to the highest standards. 

As a result, Washington’s men fought skillfully in battle 

afterwards and it was at that time they embodied the 

principles and discipline that distinguished them as a 

professional army. 

Their perseverance, commitment to the cause, and 

disciplined execution of their military tasks enabled America 

to win its independence from England in 1783.

Training to standard and gaining the inner strength to adapt 

and overcome adversity became the theme for our Army’s 

training model. Baron von Steuben, by then the Army 

Inspector General, wrote the Regulations for the Order and 

Discipline of the Troops of the United States—now 

commonly referred to as the Blue Book—an instructional 

guide for future generations. This book consists, as our 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 11

modern version does now, of detailed training procedures, 

the standards of military conduct, and the fundamentals 

every Soldier needs to know to succeed.

Use this version of the “Blue Book” on the journey on which 

you are about to undertake. Just as Soldiers before you 

trained to serve and protect our Nation, this book will help 

you to learn, train and perform the tasks required of you to 

become Soldiers in the United States Army.
12 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Chapter 1 – The Army

On 14 June 1775, the Second Continental Congress 

established “the American Continental Army.” The United 

States Army is the senior Service of the Armed Forces. As 

one of the oldest American institutions, it predates the 

Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. For 

almost two and a half centuries, Army forces have protected 

this Nation. Our Army flag is adorned with over 190

campaign and battle streamers to date, each one signifying 

great sacrifices on behalf of the Nation. 

Because of the Army, the United States is independent and 

one undivided nation.
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 13

1-1. Why we have an Army

It is the intent of Congress to provide an Army that is 

capable, in conjunction with the other armed forces, of...

Preserving the peace and security, and providing for the 

defense of the United States, the Commonwealths and 

possessions, and any areas occupied by the United States;

Supporting the national policies;

Implementing the national objectives; and

Overcoming any nations responsible for aggressive acts that 

imperil the peace and security of the United States.

Title 10, U.S. Code, Section 3062(a)
14 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 15
16 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

1-2. What the Army uniform represents

For Soldiers it means that they are part of something far 

bigger than themselves...it is an opportunity to serve this 

great country and to make a difference in this world.

For Army Families, the uniform is a source of both pride and

sacrifice.

Living by and upholding the Army Ethics is our life-long 

commitment. For our veterans, it represents one of the most 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 17

important periods of their lives...pride in honorable service, 

accomplishments as part of a team, and a life-long 

connection to the comrades with whom they served, and in 

some cases, lost during their time in uniform.

When Soldiers return to society as private citizens, they are 

expected to continue to be moral-ethical role models for 

their Families and communities, contributing to the wellbeing of the United States of America, as Soldiers for Life.

For the American citizen, Soldiers are their sons, daughters, 

relatives, neighbors, and during disaster, their lifeline. In us 

they see patriotism and selfless service, and heroism. 

Being seen as heroes you are expected to uphold a higher 

standard and represent yourself and community as a source 

of pride and commitment. 

People around the world recognize the American Soldier as 

a symbol of the United States...Soldiers represent freedom, 

democracy, and stability.

To our enemies, the Soldier represents American strength,

resolve, and a commitment to defend the values that we 

hold dear as a Nation.

1-3. Why we serve

As Soldiers, we are committed to do our duty to contribute to 

the “common defense;” we share a love of our country and 

of our Army Family; we defend American values that frame 

the nation as expressed in the Declaration of Independence 
18 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

and the Constitution of the United States; and we serve “not 

to promote war, but to preserve peace.”

1-4. The Army’s Motto – “This We’ll Defend”

The Army’s motto remains as relevant today as it did at our 

Nation’s founding. The pronoun “We” reinforces our 

collective or team effort and “Defend” remains our Army’s 

main mission. The Army continues this pledge into the 

future, as we have done since 1775.

Department of the Army Emblem
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 19

1-5. Oath of Enlistment

Members of the American military profession swear or affirm 

to support and defend the Constitution of the United 

States—not a leader, people, government, or territory. 

That solemn oath ties service in the Army directly to the 

founding document of the United States. It instills a nobility 

of purpose within each member of the Army Profession and 

provides deep personal meaning to all who serve.

The Army Profession believes America must have a 

Professional Army of Soldiers and Civilians who are inspired 

to honorably fulfill their Oaths of Service. We accomplish our 

missions as a team, partnering with the other armed forces 

in the joint community and with government services that 

dedicate themselves to defending the U.S. Constitution and 
20 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

protect the Nation’s interests, at home and abroad, against 

all threats.” 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 21

Chapter 2 – The Army as a Profession

2-1. The Army Profession

Our identity, as trusted Army professionals, derives from our 

shared understanding of and respect for those whose legacy 

we celebrate. We honor this cherished inheritance in our 

customs, courtesies, and traditions. Units and organizations 

preserve their storied histories and proudly display 

distinctive emblems (regimental colors, crests, insignia, 

patches, and mottos). The campaign streamers on the Army 

flag remind us of our history of honorable service to the 

Nation. These symbols recall the sacrifices and preserve the 

ties with those who preceded us. 
22 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Our Army Profession has two mutually supporting 

communities of practice—

 The Profession of Arms, Soldiers of the Regular 

Army, Army National Guard, and Army Reserve.

 The Army Civilian Corps, composed of civilian 

professionals serving in the Department of the

Army.

Profession of Arms: Uniformed members of the Army 

Profession—Soldiers. This includes the Regular Army, 

Army National Guard, and Army Reserve.

The Army Ethic: An evolving set of laws, values, and 

beliefs, deeply embedded within the core of the Army culture 

and practiced by all members of the Army Profession to 

motivate and guide the appropriate conduct of individual 

members bound together in common moral purpose.

“A soldier is the most-trusted profession in 

America. Americans have trust in you because you 

trust each other”. 

9th Sergeant Major of the Army Richard A. Kidd
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 23

2-2 What it means to be a Soldier

The Army is an honored profession, founded on a bedrock 

of Trust – trust between Soldiers; trust between Soldiers and 

Leaders; Trust between Soldiers and Army Civilians; trust 

between Solders, their Families and the Army; and trust 

between the Army and the American people. By our solemn 

oath, we are morally committed to support and defend the 

Constitution. This duty requires a foundation of trust with the 

American people who grant us autonomy to use lethal force 

on their behalf, only because we have earned their trust. 

Army professionals understand and accept that they may 

give their lives and justly take the lives of others to 

accomplish the mission. The moral implications of this 

realization compel essential bonds of mutual trust within 

cohesive teams. The Nation tasks the Army to do many 

things besides combat operations, but ultimately, the 

primary reason the Army exists is to fight and win our 

Nation’s wars through prompt and sustained land combat as 

part of the joint force. The Army and each of its members 

must maintain the readiness to accomplish this mission, now 

and in the future. Once a Soldier, always a Soldier...A 

Soldier for Life.

2-3. Who we are not

Army Professionals do not engage in or tolerate acts of 

misconduct or unethical decisions. Actions such as 

sexual harassment, sexual assault, and hazing are 

dishonorable and contrary to the Army Values and the 
24 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Army’s Professional Ethos and destroy esprit de corps. One 

incident is one too many. 

Sexual Harassment is a form of gender discrimination that 

involves unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual 

favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual 

nature. 

Sexual Assault is a CRIME and can result in a felony 

offense. Sexual assault is defined as intentional sexual 

contact, characterized by use of force, threats, intimidation 

or abuse of authority, or when the victim does not or cannot 

consent. Sexual assault includes rape, forcible sodomy and 

other unwanted sexual contact that is aggravated, abusive, 

or wrongful or attempts to commit these acts. This includes 

touching of the breasts, buttocks, genitalia or any other part 

of the body to satisfy sexual desires. During training, there 

is no such thing as a consensual relationship. 

Hazing is defined as any conduct whereby one military 

member or employee, regardless of Service or rank, 

unnecessarily causes another military member or employee, 

regardless of Service or rank, to suffer or be exposed to an 

activity that is cruel, abusive, or harmful.

2-4. The Army’s commitment to you

Our commitment to you is to help guide you on this journey 

from an aspiring member of the Army Profession to a 

Soldier. 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 25

We are committed to providing you with a safe and secure 

environment where everyone can live, train, and learn, while 

developing into Soldiers of... 

 Character: Soldiers who understand, adhere to, and 

uphold the Army Ethic, as demonstrated by their 

decisions and actions. 

 Competence: Soldiers who demonstrate the ability to 

perform basic combat skills and who demonstrate entrylevel proficiency in their designated occupational 

specialty.

 Commitment: Soldiers who understand the calling to 

honorable service and sacrifice, in the defense of our 

Nation, who perform their duties successfully with 

discipline and to standard, and who successfully and 

ethically accomplish the mission despite adversity, 

obstacles, and challenges.

In turn, you join the ranks of generations of Soldiers who 

previously answered the call to defend America's freedoms; 

you join a band of brothers and sisters who are prepared to 

serve this Nation in peace and in war; and join the 

Profession of Arms, a profession dedicated to upholding the 

values and ideals of our Country and its people that we 

serve and represent.

Our desired outcome as you complete your initial 

certification process is to provide the Army with a Soldier... 
26 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

 Who has internalized the Army Ethic, accepting the calling 

to the shared identity of being a Trusted Army 

Professional, as demonstrated by your decisions and 

actions. 

 Who is agile, adaptive and resilient.

 Who is physically ready to execute required Soldier and 

occupational specialty skills.

 Who is ready to serve as a trusted member of a team in 

their first unit of assignment.

2-5. The journey begins

When you took the Oath of Enlistment, you became a 

member of the Army Profession, albeit an aspiring 

professional or apprentice.

The task at hand is to develop and certify you in the Army 

Profession of Character, Competence and Commitment. 

The responsibility for each individual’s development and 

certification is a mutual one, a trusted bond, shared between 

you, your leaders, and the Army.

The first certification in becoming an Army Professional is 

the most critical one. This involves providing you with the 

knowledge and skills to serve as a practicing professional in 

your first unit of assignment.
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 27

Chapter 3 – The Reception Battalion

3-1. The Path

Welcome to the Reception Battalion. By being here, this 

means that you have met your initial entry qualification 

requirements. While at the Military Entrance Processing 

Station you underwent a battery of aptitude tests and 

medical examinations to determine if you were qualified for 

military service. Congratulations, you passed! 

You’ve been vetted mentally, physically, and intellectually, 

by passing the Occupational Physical Assessment Test

(OPAT), and the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude 

Battery (ASVAB). You know what your future military

occupational specialty (MOS/Job) will be, and are sworn

into the United States Army. Now it’s time for you to

begin the transformation to becoming a Soldier.

You are at one of the following Basic Combat Training/

One Station Unit Training locations:

 Fort Benning, Georgia

 Fort Jackson, South Carolina

 Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri

 Fort Sill, Oklahoma

If your MOS is 11B/11C (Infantryman), 19D (Cavalry Scout), 

19K (Armor Crewman), 12B (Combat Engineer) or 31B 

(Military Police Officer), you will conduct your Basic Combat 

Training and occupational skills training in one course. This 
28 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

is called “One Station Unit Training” or “OSUT” and is 

conducted at Fort Benning for 11B and 19K Soldiers, and at 

Fort Leonard Wood for 12B and 31B Soldiers. 

All other Soldiers will go through “Basic Combat Training” or 

“BCT” at one of the four locations listed above, and upon 

completion, will attend a follow-on course called “Advanced 

Individual Training” or “AIT.” This course may be at the 

same installation as your BCT training or may be at another 

location.

While at the Reception Battalion, you will undergo further 

medical and dental processing. Medical and dental 

processing will include collection of blood for certain 

immunities, type, and DNA; hearing and vision exams (in 

addition to the MEPS exams); pregnancy screening; 

tuberculosis screening; immunizations; and a brief dental 

exam and x-rays. You will receive ear plugs, eyewear and 

eye protection, and personal protective items such as 

sunscreen. These are all items of “individual medical 

readiness” that you will maintain throughout your career. 

You will also undergo further administrative processing 

(personnel and finance records, and security clearance if 

applicable).

You will receive a standard military haircut, be issued your 

initial clothing requirement, to include physical fitness and 

Army Combat Uniforms (ACUs), footwear and 

miscellaneous clothing items. You will be taught how to 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 29

properly wear the clothing issued and begin to learn the 

basics of military culture. 

Your actions and ability to follow instructions will be 

monitored carefully. A Drill Sergeant or cadre member will 

take you through the stations required for you to enter into 

the Army. 

Follow all instructions and pay attention to detail. One of the 

key elements to being successful in the Army is ensuring 

you understand what is required of you and ask questions if 

you are unsure. 

A typical stay in the Reception Battalion lasts from 3-5 days 

for BCT Soldiers and 5-7 days for OSUT Soldiers.

When you complete reception in-processing, you will be 

assigned to a training company. Drill Sergeants will pick 

you up at the Reception Battalion and travel with you to your 

BCT or OSUT company location.

Eagle Cash Stored Value Card: While at the Reception 

Battalion, you will be issued a Stored Value Card. The 

stored value card reduces cash/check operations for the 

initial trainee advance. The card 

can be used at the Army and Air 

Force Exchange Service (AAFES) 

sites (barber shops, clothing sales, 

and Post Exchange facilities). 

Any remaining value at expiration is 

returned to the Soldier; however, spending the full amount 
30 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

prior to completion of training is encouraged. Advance 

amount on the Eagle Cash Card is $350. The Value Card

will expire 45 days from initial issue to Soldiers at the 

Reception Battalion. 

3-2. Critical information needed upfront

During your stay at the Reception Battalion, BCT or OSUT, 

you will be expected to read, study, and memorize all

necessary information. The purpose of the information is to 

introduce and reinforce who we are as Army Professionals 

and what we represent as Soldiers. Your job is to fully 

understand, comprehend and demonstrate your proficiency 

by reciting it to the Drill Sergeant and leaders either 

individually or as a group. 

Information identified by a “star” requires 

comprehension by memorization.

3-3. The Battle Buddy System

Soldiers rely on one another to stay motivated and reach 

peak performance. Although required in Initial Military 

Training, Soldiers will form natural bonds with their fellow 

Soldiers as part of Army culture. To contribute to this team 

spirit, we live by the buddy system. A buddy team is usually 

defined as two Soldiers in the same unit who look after each 

other at all times. 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 31

By getting to know other Soldiers on a professional and 

personal level, you learn how to improve yourself and 

encourage others. Working together, you and your battle 

buddy learn initiative, responsibility, trust, and dependability. 

While at the Reception Battalion, BCT, OSUT and AIT,

same-gender Soldiers (male-male and female-female) are 

placed in buddy teams. With the requirement to excel in 

Army training, some Soldiers need more positive 

reinforcement than others. For that reason, you may also 

be paired based on your strengths, so you and your buddy 

can complement each other’s weaknesses. 

Battle Buddy responsibilities:

 Never leave your buddy alone

 Never let your buddy go into an office or room by 

themselves; even if a Drill Sergeant, Platoon Sergeant 

or Instructor says it’s okay

 Keep your buddy safe and free from harm

 Know the whereabouts of your buddy at all times

 Pass information to your buddy

 Encourage and support your buddy to train harder and 

do better

 Help your buddy solve problems

 Inform Cadre of any changes in your buddy’s behavior
32 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

In the end, the most rewarding part of the buddy system is 

making every Soldier your buddy; for any one of them could 

help you accomplish your mission or save your life in 

combat.

3-4. Army Values

Our ethical and moral foundation as Soldiers are solidified in 

the seven Army Values—

Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, 

Integrity, and Personal Courage. 

They are at the core of who we are as individuals, as 

Soldiers, as Professionals and as Americans. Whether on 

or off-duty, Soldiers live these values every day. 

The easiest way to 

remember the Army 

Values is through the 

acronym “LDRSHIP”.

LOYALTY: Bear true 

faith and allegiance 

to the U.S. 

Constitution, the 

Army, your unit, and 

other Soldiers. 

Bearing true faith and allegiance is a matter of believing in 

and dedicating yourself to the United States of America and 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 33

the U.S. Army. A loyal Soldier is one who supports his or 

her leader and stands up for fellow Soldiers. By wearing the 

uniform of the U.S. Army you are expressing your loyalty to 

the Nation, Family, and your fellow Soldiers. 

DUTY: Fulfill your obligations.

Doing your duty means carrying out your assigned tasks 

and being able to accomplish the mission as part of a team. 

Duty also requires you to work hard every day to be a better 

Soldier. Everyone in our Army contributes to the mission if 

they do their duty. 

RESPECT: Treat people as you yourself would want to

be treated.

Respect allows us to appreciate the best in other people. 

Respect is trusting that all people have done their jobs and 

fulfilled their duty. Self-respect is also a vital ingredient and 

is a result from knowing you have put forth your best effort. 

The Army is one team, and all contribute best when they are 

treated with respect.

SELFLESS SERVICE: Put the welfare of the Nation, the 

Army, and your subordinates before your own.

In serving your country, you are doing your duty loyally 

without thought of recognition, reward, or personal comfort.

Selfless services is the commitment of each team member 

to go a little further, endure a little longer, and look a little 

closer to see how he or she can add to the team effort 

without thought of personal gain. 
34 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

HONOR: Live up to Army Values.

Honor is a matter of carrying out, acting, and living the 

values of loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, integrity, 

and personal courage in everything you do. It is always 

doing what you know is right even when no one is looking.

INTEGRITY: Do what’s right, legally and morally.

Integrity is a quality you develop by adhering to moral 

principles. Once lost, it is the hardest to recover. It requires 

complete honesty in your words and actions. As your 

integrity strengthens, so does the trust others place in you. 

Trust is one of the most important attributes in our 

Profession. The more choices you make based on integrity, 

the more this highly prized value will characterize your 

relationships with Family and friends, and finally, define you 

as a person and a Soldier.

PERSONAL COURAGE: Face and overcome fear, 

danger, or adversity (physical or moral).

Personal courage has long been associated with our Army. 

Courage is a matter of enduring physical duress and at 

times risking personal safety. Facing fear or adversity may 

require continuing forward on the right path, especially if 

taking those actions is not popular with others. You can 

build your personal courage by daily standing up for and 

acting upon the things that you know are right. 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 35

3-5. Suicide Prevention

Everyone has the power and responsibility to protect

Soldiers on and off the battlefield. This includes recognizing 

uncharacteristic and suicidal behaviors.

Effective suicide prevention 

requires everyone in the unit to 

be aware of the risk factors for

suicide and know how to 

respond. Commanders, NCOs, 

supervisors and battle buddies

must lead the way.

If a Soldier seems suicidal, the 

time to take action is NOW. Talk 

to the Soldier before it is too late.

What to look for: Warning 

Signs

Distress can lead to the 

development of unhealthy

behaviors. People closest to the 

Soldier (fellow Soldiers, Family, friends) are in the best 

position to recognize changes due to distress and to provide

support.
36 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Look For:

 Comments that suggest thoughts or plans of suicide

 Rehearsal of suicidal acts

 Giving away possessions

 Obsession with death and dying

 Uncharacteristic behaviors 

 Significant change in performance

 Appearing overwhelmed by recent stressor(s)

 Depressed mood; hopelessness

 Withdrawal from social activities

3-6. The Soldier’s Creed and Warrior Ethos

The Soldier's Creed captures the essence of what it means 

to be a Soldier. 

The Warrior Ethos—within the Soldier’s Creed—describes a 

Soldier’s selfless commitment to the nation, the mission, and 

fellow Soldiers. 

All Soldiers are warriors—prepared, trained and fully 

equipped for war. Soldiers destroy the enemy in close 

combat, resolve conflict, and then restore the peace. They 

are also part of a team, bound to each other by integrity and 

trust. 

As Soldiers, you will always be under some level of physical 

and mental stress, regardless of your rank or specialty. 

Living by the Soldier’s Creed and Warrior Ethos provides the 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 37

inner strength and motivation you need to continue 

performing your duty and executing your mission.
38 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

The Soldier’s Creed

I am an American Soldier.

I am a warrior and a member of a team.

I serve the people of the United States and live the Army 

Values.

I will always place the mission first.

I will never accept defeat.

I will never quit.

I will never leave a fallen comrade.

I am disciplined, physically and mentally tough, trained 

and proficient in my Warrior tasks and drills.

I always maintain my arms, my equipment and myself.

I am an expert and I am a professional.

I stand ready to deploy, engage, and destroy the 

enemies of the United States of America in close 

combat.

I am a guardian of freedom and the American way of 

life.

I am an American Soldier.
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 39

3-7. The BCT / One Station Unit Training (OSUT) / 

Advanced Individual Training (AIT) “Golden Rules”

#1 DO NOT bully, haze, assault or harass a fellow 

Soldier

 DO help and assist your teammate

#2 DO NOT use vulgar language, rude gestures or 

discriminate against others

 DO treat everyone with dignity and respect

#3 DO NOT kiss, attempt to kiss or touch a fellow 

Soldier

 DO respect your teammate’s personal space

#4 DO NOT steal or take something that does not 

belong to you

 DO build trust with teammates through your 

ethical and disciplined actions

#5 DO NOT go anywhere without your battle buddy

 DO report violations of policies and regulations to 

your platoon and company leadership
40 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Chapter 4 – BCT / OSUT / AIT

4-1. What to expect

All phases of training build character, instill discipline,

reinforce the Army Values, improve physical conditioning, 

and teach basic combat and occupational skills. All of these 

contribute in the development of your individual skills and 

knowledge, resulting in a Soldier capable of serving as a 

member of a team in your first unit of assignment.

BCT / OSUT / AIT are training courses that transform 

civilians into Soldiers. Over the course of a number of 

weeks you will develop the character, commitment, and 

competence skills and knowledge to succeed as a Soldier.

BCT – 10 weeks

11B/C (Infantryman) OSUT – 13 weeks, 3 days

12B (Combat Engineer) OSUT – 14 weeks

19D (Cavalry Scout) OSUT – 16 weeks

19K (Armor Crewman) OSUT – 15 weeks

31B (Military Police Officer) OSUT – 19 weeks, 1 day

AIT – Varies by Military Occupational Specialty

4-2. The training company – Your unit

Upon arrival to your training company, the Drill Sergeants 

and cadre will in-process you and assign you to a platoon, 

which is a group of 60 Soldiers and 3 Drill Sergeants. Your 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 41

Drill Sergeants are a mix of highly qualified male and female 

NCOs with 5-10 years of experience in the Army.

The Company Commander (Captain) is in charge of the 

Company. The Commander establishes policy and has 

legal discipline authority over you and all assigned company 

personnel. 

The First Sergeant (1SG), who is the master trainer assists 

the Commander and supervises the Drill Sergeants and 

other Soldiers and civilians assigned to the company. 

There are typically 12 Drill Sergeants assigned to the 

company. They are responsible for the training and testing 

you receive. You will also see a Supply Sergeant (could be 

a civilian) who is responsible for the linen, pillows, cleaning 

supplies and the work orders needed to maintain the 

company. 

The training NCO or Training Officer/Executive Officer (XO) 

is responsible for updating and maintaining training records 

and the coordination of each day’s training events. 
42 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

4-3. Safe and Secure Environment

The Army provides a safe living and learning environment 

for all Soldiers. When you arrive at your company you will 

notice security measures established to protect you and 

your battle buddies. 

Alarms are placed on doors that separate male and female 

Soldiers. This is to ensure no unauthorized entry during 

lights out or sleeping hours. Do not prop doors open or 

allow unauthorized persons to enter your barracks bay or 

sleeping area. 

Cameras are installed in common areas (hallways, 

stairwells, lobbies, etc.) to assist cadre with identifying any 

misconduct during all hours of the day and night. 

The Army installed hotline telephones in the barracks to 

assist Soldiers in reporting incidents, seeking help from an 

outside agency, or to check the weather. These hotlines are

located in common areas and have multiple pre-programed 

lines for Soldiers to report incidents or reach important 

resources. 

Upon arrival to your Basic Combat Training location you will 

receive a briefing on SHARP and introduced to the 

individuals who are assigned as the Sexual Assault 

response Coordinator (SARC) and the Victim Advocate 

(VA). 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 43

These are the NCOs and or civilians that will provide you 

with contact information to be used if violations are observed 

during your training. 

Their names and contact information are posted throughout 

the barracks and company area.

Write their names and contact information in the area 

provided in the front of the Blue Book.

4-4. Drill Sergeants
44 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

A Drill Sergeant is a symbol of excellence in initial entry 

training, is an expert in all warrior tasks and battle drills, 

lives the Army Values, exemplifies the Warrior Ethos, and 

most importantly is the epitome of the Army as a Profession. 

A Drill Sergeant wears the distinctive “campaign hat” or 

“bush hat” and is responsible for coaching, counseling, 

mentoring, and transforming Soldiers like you from a civilian 

volunteer to a combat-ready Soldier.

When addressing a Drill Sergeant your response will be, 

yes, Drill Sergeant; no, Drill Sergeant, This is a form of 

respect to the Drill Sergeant and their position. 

Like the distinctive headgear they wear, each Drill Sergeant 

proudly wears their Drill Sergeant badge on their uniform. 

The badge has a specific 

meaning.

It consists of 13 stars 

representing the original 

colonies. The torch, burning 

brightly in the center, symbolizes 

liberty. The snake is derived from the original "Don't Tread 

on Me" serpent, a symbol of American independence during 

the 18th century. Together with the torch and breastplate, it 

indicates readiness to defend. The breastplate is a symbol 

of strength. The green background is a vestment worn 

under the breastplate and called a Jupon, which represents 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 45

the new Army. The snake grasps, with it’s tail and teeth, a 

scroll inscribed with the Army’s motto "This We'll Defend."

The heritage of the Drill Sergeant and NCO reaches back to 

the Revolutionary War and carries through to today’s Army. 

Drill sergeants provide inspiration, discipline, and technical 

competence within unit formations. 
46 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 47

DRILL SERGEANT CREED

I am a Drill Sergeant

I will assist each individual in their efforts to become a highly 

motivated, well disciplined, physically and mentally fit Soldier, 

capable of defeating any enemy on today’s modern battlefield.

I will instill pride in all I train, pride in Self, in the Army, and in 

Country.

I will insist that each Soldier meets and maintains the Army’s 

standards of military bearing and courtesy, consistent with 

the highest traditions of the U.S. Army.

I will lead by example, never requiring a Soldier to attempt any 

task I would not do myself.

But first, last, and always, I am an American Soldier, sworn to 

defend the Constitution of the United Sates against all 

enemies, both foreign and domestic.

I am a Drill Sergeant.
48 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

4-5. The Soldierization process

Initial Entry Soldiers undergo a five-phase training program 

that prepares you for the transition from civilian volunteer to 

Professional Soldier. The advancement through each 

phase is a major “stepping stone” in your life, because each 

stage repeatedly tests and pushes you to be the best. 

In a highly supervised environment, you will experience 

training that challenges you physically and mentally. 

Successful Soldiers model the actions, behaviors, and Army 

Values exhibited by your Drill Sergeants and AIT Platoon 

Sergeants. 

Each of the five phases is essential. They are identified by 

colors; each phase signifies a specific turning point in 

becoming a Soldier. 

The Red, White, and Blue phases are part of BCT and the 

first 9 weeks of OSUT. The Black and Gold phases are part 

of AIT and the latter weeks of OSUT. 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 49

4-6. Military time

Being a Soldier is a 24-hour a day job, it is only fitting that 

military time is expressed using 24 hours. As a global 

military force, the U.S. Army constantly coordinates with 

bases and personnel located in other time zones. To avoid 

confusion due to time differences, the military uses 

Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), commonly referred to as 

military time. 

Civilian 

Time

Military 

Time

Civilian 

Time

Military 

Time

12:00 

Midnight

0000 12:00 

Noon

1200

12:01 AM 0001 1:00 PM 1300

1:00 AM 0100 2:00 PM 1400

2:00 AM 0200 3:00 PM 1500

3:00 AM 0300 4:00 PM 1600

4:00 AM 0400 5:00 PM 1700

5:00 AM 0500 6:00 PM 1800

6:00 AM 0600 7:00 PM 1900

7:00 AM 0700 8:00 PM 2000

8:00 AM 0800 9:00 PM 2100

9:00 AM 0900 10:00 PM 2200

10:00 AM 1000 11:00 PM 2300

11:00 AM 1100 11:59 PM 2359
50 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

4-7. Daily schedule

Typical schedule during BCT/OSUT:

0500 – First Call

0530 – Physical Readiness Training

0630 – Breakfast

0830 – Training

1200 – Lunch

1300 – Training

1700 – Dinner

1800 – Drill Sergeant Time

2030 – Personal Time

2130 – Lights-Out

4-8. Basic Combat Training (BCT)

Red Phase. You begin the Soldierization process by 

learning discipline, standards, values, and teamwork. In 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 51

Red phase, you will learn about the Warrior Ethos, first aid, 

sexual harassment/assault response and prevention 

programs, customs and courtesies, and resiliency 

techniques. You will also participate in physical readiness 

training, road marches, confidence building exercises, and 

learn how to march in a military formation. At the end of Red 

phase you will earn the Army unit patch that is worn on the 

left shoulder of your ACU uniform. 

White Phase. You will learn rifle marksmanship and qualify 

on your assigned weapon. You will also continue your 

physical readiness training along with negotiating an 

obstacle course and train in the field on the basic soldier 

skills necessary to meet the needs of an expeditionary Army 

known as” Warrior Tasks and Battle Drills”. 
52 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

These skills help develop your confidence in becoming a 

strong member of the Army team. At the end of white phase 

you will earn your rifle qualification badge.

Blue Phase. This phase builds upon what you learned over 

the past two phases and reinforces the basic combat skills

with a focus on teamwork and discipline. You will learn to 

operate additional weapons used by the Army. You will 

throw live hand grenades, train in urban operations and

survive multiple days in a field environment. 

After passing all your BCT tests and challenges, you qualify 

to wear the Army Black Beret as a Rite of Passage.

4-9. Warrior Tasks and Battle Drills

The Army has identified various basic Warrior Tasks and 

Battle Drills (WTBDs) that all Soldiers are required to train in 

order to succeed on the battlefield. These WTBDs are 

taught in basic combat training and cover critical skills 

associated with the ability to shoot, move, communicate, 

and survive. 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 53

While in the Reception Battalion, you received a copy of the 

Soldier’s Manual of Common Tasks, Warrior Skills Level 1 

(STP-21-1-SMCT). This manual covers all of the WTBDs 

you are required to know. 

Shoot: You will become proficient with your weapon and

learn how to maintain, employ, and engage targets as well 

as how to properly handle and employ hand grenades. 

 Maintain, employ, and engage targets with individually 

assigned weapon system

 Employ hand grenades

Move: You will learn how to move tactically on the ground 

by practicing individual movement techniques. You will 

learn how to navigate from one point to another and how to 

move as a member of a team. 

 Perform individual movement techniques

 Navigate from one point to another

 Move as a member of a Team

Communicate: Communication training focuses on using 

modern technology to convey information effectively. You 

will learn equipment and procedures to become a more 

technically savvy Soldier and an effective communicator.

 Perform voice communications

 Use visual signaling techniques

Survive: Experience in handling the pressures of modern 

warfare is critical for Soldier survival. Practice in survival 
54 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

tasks helps you to react properly to hostile fire, enemy 

threats, and to maintain situational awareness.

 React to chemical, biological, radiological, and 

nuclear attack/hazard

 Perform immediate lifesaving measures

 Perform counter Improvised Explosive Device

 Maintain Situational Awareness

 Assess and Respond to Threats (Escalation of Force)

 Construct an Individual Fighting Position

Battle Drills: A battle drill is a collective action performed 

by a platoon, squad, or team that requires no planning, but 

is conducted as routine action when events dictate a 

response.

 React to contact

 Establish security at the halt

 Perform Tactical Combat Casualty care

 React to Ambush (near/far) 

4-10. BCT graduation requirements

You must successfully accomplish the following 

requirements to graduate from Basic Combat Training...

 Complete the Army physical fitness test (APFT) by 

scoring at least 50 points in each event. 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 55

In order to graduate from OSUT/AIT you must score 

at least 60 points in each event. [Goal is to achieve 80 

points or higher for your age/gender.]

 Safely handle, provide proper maintenance, zero, and 

qualify with your individual weapon using a M68 optic.

 Demonstrate proficiency in the wear of the chemical 

protective mask and complete the protective mask 

confidence exercise (CBRN 2).

 Pass the end-of-cycle “hands-on” test and 

demonstrate proficiency in the Warrior Tasks and 

Battle Drills.

 Demonstrate proficiency in basic First Aid techniques. 

 Negotiate the obstacle and confidence courses.

 Complete combatives training. 

 Qualify on the hand grenade qualification course to 

standard and throw two live hand grenades.

 Complete the end of cycle 16K tactical foot march.

 Pass the 3/4-person team Land Navigation Course. 

 Complete the tactical field training and/ or situational 

training exercises (FTXs/STXs).

 Complete the Buddy Team Live Fire.
56 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

4-11. AIT/OSUT

Transition from BCT to AIT: Soldiers are to report to AIT on 

the scheduled report date. Soldiers who are authorized to 

travel to the AIT location with family members must arrive at 

the AIT location no later than 1800 on the Sunday prior to 

the scheduled AIT report date. Do not expect passes or 

privileges above what you were allowed in BCT, ensure you 

maintain any equipment you were issued, maintain 

paperwork, and any publications issued during BCT. 

In AIT and the final phases of OSUT, you will be trained in 

your selected MOS (job training) and continue the physical 

conditioning required for you to excel in your future unit. 

During Black and Gold phases, you will receive classroom 

instruction, hands-on training, and field training to enable 

you to become a valued team member as you transfer to 

your first unit of assignment. 

Black Phase. The Black Phase or sometimes referred to as 

“Phase IV” is the first phase of comprehensive MOS training 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 57

that occurs during weeks 10-13 of OSUT and the initial start 

of AIT. 

This phase will begin to develop your skills in your Army 

specialty through hands-on training, classroom instruction, 

and opportunities to apply those skills during various training 

exercises. 

During Personal Financial Management Training, you will 

receive 8 hours of specialized training in how to handle your 

finances. Upon completion of the finance training, you will 

be issued a certificate. Ensure you take this certificate to 

your first unit of assignment, or you will be required to retake 

the training. 

Gold Phase. The Gold Phase or sometimes referred to as 

“Phase V” is the final and most progressive stage that 

covers weeks 14-20+ of OSUT/AIT and the longer periods 

associated with specific MOSs. 

The phase might end with a tactical FTX/STX where you will 

apply the knowledge and experience you gained from basic 

combat training and most recent MOS training and apply it 

in a simulated combat environment.

Graduation requirements. 

You must successfully accomplish the following

requirements to graduate from One Station Unit Training / 

Advanced Individual Training...

 Complete the Army physical fitness test (APFT) by
58 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

scoring at least 60 points in each event.

 Pass MOS-specific critical tasks as identified by 

the proponent school.

 Complete the 8 hour personal financial training 

course.

 Complete the Army Traffic Safety Training 

Program

 Individually pass the High Physical Demand Tests 

(HPDT) associated with your MOS (AR 611-1)

During your entry into the Army, your training, and/or final 

phases of AIT/OSUT, if you visually appear to be marginal 

or exceed body fat content standards, IAW Army Regulation

(AR) 40-501 Body Fat Standards, you will be taped in order 

to determine your body fat percentage. If you exceed the 

body fat standards you will have six months (180 days) upon 

entering the Army to meet weight/body fat compliance with 

AR 600-9.

4-12. What is the difference between Drill Sergeants and 

AIT Platoon Sergeants?

In AIT, you will be assigned to a different unit and will now 

have AIT Platoon Sergeants and Squad Leaders instead of 

Drill Sergeants. 

The difference between Drill Sergeants and AIT Platoon 

Sergeants is the environment in which they train you. Your 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 59

basic combat training experience will be highly supervised 

by Drill Sergeants as you are encouraged and evaluated on 

your ability to reach the highest Army standards. The Drill 

Sergeant enforces standards and their focus is on “attention 

to detail”. Their job is to ensure you are mentally and 

physical fit to earn your place as a member of a team and 

be able to contribute as a soldier in AIT. 

During AIT and the latter portion of OSUT, your training 

environment changes to one that best prepares you for your 

first unit of assignment. You will learn MOS skills and 

additional Soldier skills in an atmosphere geared to prepare 

you for the performance of that occupational specialty in a 

unit. 

The roles of Drill Sergeants and AIT Platoon Sergeants are 

comparable even though they train Soldiers during different 

phases of initial entry training. Drill sergeants transform new 

recruits into Soldiers 

AIT Platoon Sergeants, Squad Leaders and MOS 

Instructors train Soldiers to become proficient at their Army 

job/MOS and prepare them for their transition to their first 

assignment. 
60 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Your Platoon Sergeant will counsel and mentor you to help 

develop your skills as a soldier and a member of the team. 

The AIT Platoon Sergeant is normally a sergeant first class, 

but can be a staff sergeant and has 3-4 squad leaders that 

assist him/her in your development. The AIT Platoon

Sergeant will assist you in making scheduled appointments, 

help with assignment instructions, any training or family 

issues, and provide guidance throughout your AIT training. 

As you process to your first unit you will continue to be 

assigned to a platoon and fall under a Platoon Sergeant and 

squad leaders. 

AIT Platoon Sergeants help Soldiers transition from a 

completely supervised environment to one that involves 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 61

more individual responsibility. This gives you a better 

understanding of the duties, discipline, and responsibilities 

you must maintain as a Soldier. 
62 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

AIT PLATOON SERGEANT CREED

I AM AN AIT PLATOON SERGEANT

I embody the Army Values and adhere to the highest 

standards of ethical conduct. I will share my knowledge 

and experience, and enforce the Army Standards in 

every Soldier by demonstrating character, competence, 

and commitment.

I will reinforce Warrior Task and Battle Drills, ensuring 

all Soldiers are prepared to win the wars of this great 

nation.

I am physically fit, an effective communicator and a 

sound administrator. I will never ask my Soldiers to do 

anything I would not do myself.

It is an honor to guide Soldiers through the transition 

process. I am a leader and will always conduct myself 

as a professional.

I AM AN AIT PLATOON SERGEANT
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 63

Chapter 5 – Personal Appearance and 

Uniforms

5-1. Personal appearance

The Army is a profession. A Soldier’s appearance 

measures part of his or her professionalism. Proper wear 

of the Army uniform is a matter of personal pride for all 

Soldiers. It is indicative of esprit de corps and morale 

within a unit.

Soldiers have an individual responsibility to ensure their 

appearance reflects the highest level of professionalism. 

Your uniform is only part of your appearance. To look

like a Soldier, you need to be physically fit, meet

acceptable weight standards, and have a neat hairstyle in

accordance with Army regulations.

Note: While attending BCT/OSUT/AIT some of the personal 

appearance allowances may be restricted while undergoing 

training. Your Drill Sergeants, AIT Platoon Sergeants and 

instructors will inform you of these restrictions.

Note: Reference AR 670-1 or DA PAM 670-1 for additional 

inquiries concerning Army uniforms and awards.

http://armypubs.army.mil/epubs/pdf/r670_1.pdf

Note: When traveling from BCT to AIT wear of the Army 

Combat Uniform (ACU), or appropriate civilian attire, unless 

restricted by the commander.
64 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Hairstyles

While at BCT, you will receive a standard haircut. The 

purpose of the short cut is for hygiene purposes and

extensive physical and outdoor activities you will undertake 

over the next 10 weeks.

Once you graduate from BCT, you may have individualized 

haircut, as long as it conforms to Army regulation. Most 

Army Air Force Exchange Store (AAFES) barbers have a 

poster which shows authorized haircut styles. 

Male Grooming Standards

For male personnel, the hair must not fall over the ears or 

eyebrows, or touch the collar (except for closely cut hair at 

the back of the neck).

 Hair should be tapered, except that "block cut" in the 

back is permitted in moderate degree.

 Neither the bulk nor length of hair may interfere with 

the wearing of military headgear.

 Sideburns must be neatly trimmed, not flared, not 

come to a point, and must not extend downward 

beyond the lowest part of the exterior ear opening.
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 65

 The face must be clean-shaven.

 If a mustache is worn after graduation from 

BCT/OSUT/AIT, it must be neatly trimmed.

 No part of the mustache will cover the upper lip line or 

extend horizontally beyond or below the corner points 

of the mouth where the upper and lower lips join.

For female personnel, the requirements for hair regulations 

are to maintain uniformity within a military population for 

female Soldiers while in uniform, or in civilian clothes on 

duty, unless otherwise specified. Female hairstyles may not 

be eccentric or faddish and will present a conservative, 

professional appearance. For the purpose of these 

regulations, female hairstyles are organized into three basic 
66 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

categories: short length, medium length, and long length 

hair.

Short length. Short hair is defined as hair length that 

extends no more than 1 inch from the scalp (excluding 

bangs). Hair may be no shorter than 1/4 inch from the scalp 

(unless due to medical condition or injury), but may be

evenly tapered to the scalp within 2 inches of the hair line 

edges. Bangs, if worn, may not fall below the eyebrows, 

may not interfere with the wear of all headgear, must lie 

neatly against the head, and not be visible underneath the

front of the headgear. The width of the bangs may extend to 

the hairline at the temple.

Medium length. Medium hair is defined as hair length that 

does not extend beyond the lower edge of the collar (in all 

uniforms), and extends more than 1 inch from the scalp.

Medium hair may fall naturally in uniform, and is not required 

to be secured. When worn loose, graduated hair styles are 

acceptable, but the length, as measured from the end of the 

total hair length to the base of the collar, may not exceed 1 

inch difference in length, from the front to the back. Layered 

hairstyles are also authorized, so long as each hair’s length, 

as measured from the scalp to the hair’s end, is generally 

the same length giving a tapered appearance. The 

regulations for the wear of bangs detailed above, apply. No 

portion of the bulk of the hair, as measured from the scalp, 

will exceed 2 inches.

Long length. Long hair is defined as hair length that 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 67

extends beyond the lower edge of the collar. Long hair will 

be neatly and inconspicuously fastened or pinned, except 

that bangs may be worn. The regulations for the wear of

bangs detailed above, apply. No portion of the bulk of the 

hair, as measured from the scalp, will exceed 2 inches 

(except a bun, which may extend a maximum of 3 inches 

from the scalp) and be no wider than the width of the 

head. Long length hair may be worn in a ponytail during

physical training. A single pony tail centered on the back of 

the head is authorized only when within the scope of 

physical training, except when considered a safety hazard. 

The pony tail is not required to be worn above the collar. 

When hair securing devices are worn, they will comply with 

the guidelines. Hairstyles otherwise authorized in this 

chapter (such as braids and twists) may also be worn in a 

ponytail during physical training.

Braids, cornrows, and twists. Medium and long hair may 

be styled with braids, cornrows, or twists (see glossary for 

definitions). Each braid, cornrow, or twist will be of uniform 

dimension, have a diameter no greater than 1/2 inch, and 

present a neat, professional, and well-groomed appearance. 

Each must have the same approximate size of spacing 

between the braids, cornrows, or twists. Each hairstyle may 

be worn against the scalp or loose (free-hanging). When 

worn loose, such hairstyles must be worn per medium hair 

length guidelines or secured to the head in the same 

manner as described for medium or long length hair styles. 

Ends must be secured inconspicuously. When multiple 
68 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

loose braids or twists are worn, they must encompass the 

whole head. When braids, twists, or cornrows are not worn 

loosely and instead worn close to the scalp, they may stop 

at one consistent location of the head and must follow the 

natural direction of the hair when worn back, which is either 

in general straight lines following the shape of the head or 

flowing with the natural direction of the hair when worn back 

with one primary part in the hair. Hairstyles may not be 

styled with designs, sharply curved lines, or zigzag lines. 

Only one distinctive style (braided, rolled, or twisted) may be 

worn at one time. Braids, cornrows, or twists that distinctly 

protrude (up or out) from the head are not authorized.

Dreadlocks or locks. Female Soldiers may wear 

dreadlocks/locks in accordance with the guidance for braids, 

cornrows, and twists.

Jewelry

A wrist watch, identification bracelet, and up to two rings (a 

wedding set is considered to be one ring) may be worn with 

your uniform as long as they are conservative and tasteful. 

Soldiers may also wear one activity tracker, pedometer, or 

heart rate monitor. You may wear a religious medal on a 

chain around your neck provided neither medal nor chain 

can be seen.

Earrings may be screw-on, clip-on, or post-type earrings, in 

gold, silver, white pearl, or diamond. The earrings will not 

exceed 6 mm or 1⁄4 inch in diameter, and they must be 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 69

unadorned and spherical. When worn, the earrings will fit 

snugly against the ear. Females may wear earrings only as 

a matched pair, with only one earring per ear lobe. 

Note: Females are not authorized to wear earrings with any 

class C (utility) uniform (ACU, hospital duty, food service, 

physical fitness, field, or organizational).

Body Piercing

Except for earrings worn by female Soldiers when wearing 

the ASU, no displaying objects, articles, jewelry, or 

ornamentation attached or affixed to or through the skin may 

be worn while in uniform. Neither can such adornments be 

worn while wearing civilian clothes (on or off duty) when on 

any military installation, or other places under military 

control. When females are not in uniform and off duty, 

earring wear is not restricted as long as the earrings do not 

create or support ear gauging (enlarged holes in the lobe of 

the ear, greater than 1.6mm).

Cosmetics

Standards regarding cosmetics are necessary to maintain 

uniformity and to avoid an extreme or unprofessional 

appearance. Males are prohibited from wearing cosmetics, 

except when medically prescribed. Females are authorized 

to wear cosmetics with all uniforms, provided they are 

applied modestly and conservatively, and that they 

complement both the Soldier’s complexion and the uniform. 

Leaders at all levels must exercise good judgment when 

interpreting and enforcing this policy.
70 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Eccentric, exaggerated, or faddish cosmetic styles and 

colors, to include makeup designed to cover tattoos, are 

inappropriate with the uniform and are prohibited. 

Permanent makeup, such as eyebrow or eyeliner, is 

authorized as long as the makeup conforms to the 

standards outlined above. Eyelash extensions are not 

authorized unless medically prescribed. 

Females will not wear shades of lipstick that distinctly 

contrast with the natural color of their lips, that detract from 

the uniform, or that are faddish, eccentric, or exaggerated.

Females will comply with the cosmetics policy while in any 

military uniform or while in civilian clothes on duty.

Fingernails 

All personnel will keep fingernails clean and neatly trimmed. 

Males will keep nails trimmed so as not to extend beyond 

the fingertip.

Females will not exceed a nail length of 1⁄4 inch, as 

measured from the tip of the finger. Females will also trim 

nails shorter if the commander determines that the longer 

length detracts from the military image, presents a safety 

concern, or interferes with the performance of duties.

Females may wear clear acrylic nails, provided they have a 

natural appearance and conform to Army standards.
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 71

Tattoos

Note: Violation of tattoos policy by Soldiers may result in 

adverse administrative action and/or charges under the 

provisions of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ).

Tattoos and brands are permanent markings that are difficult 

to reverse (in terms of financial cost, discomfort, and 

effectiveness of removal techniques). Before obtaining 

either a tattoo or a brand, Soldiers should consider talking to

unit leaders to ensure that they understand the Army tattoo 

and brand policy. The words tattoo and brand are 

interchangeable in regards to this policy.

The following types of tattoos or brands are prejudicial to 

good order and discipline and are, therefore, prohibited 

anywhere on a Soldier’s body:

 Extremist. Extremist tattoos or brands are those 

affiliated with, depicting, or symbolizing extremist 

philosophies, organizations, or activities. Extremist 

philosophies, organizations, and activities are those 

which advocate racial, gender, or ethnic hatred or 

intolerance; advocate, create, or engage in illegal 

discrimination based on race, color, gender, ethnicity, 

religion, or national origin; or advocate violence or 

other unlawful means of depriving individual rights 

under the U.S. Constitution, and Federal or State law 

(see AR 600–20).
72 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

 Indecent. Indecent tattoos or brands are those that 

are grossly offensive to modesty, decency, propriety, 

or professionalism.

 Sexist. Sexist tattoos or brands are those that 

advocate a philosophy that degrades or demeans a 

person based on gender.

 Racist. Racist tattoos or brands are those that 

advocate a philosophy that degrades or demeans a 

person based on race, ethnicity, or national origin.

Tattoos or brands, regardless of subject matter, are 

prohibited on certain areas of the body as follows:

Soldiers are prohibited from having tattoos or brands on the 

head, face (except for permanent makeup, neck (anything 

above the t-shirt neck line to include on/inside the eyelids, 

mouth, and ears), wrists, hands, except Soldiers may have 

one ring tattoo on each hand, below the joint of the bottom 

segment (portion closest to the palm) of the finger. 

Accessing applicants must adhere to this same policy.

 Soldiers may not cover tattoos or brands with 

bandages or make up in order to comply with the 

tattoo policy.

5-2. Army Combat Uniform (ACU)
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 73

Boots

New boots should fit properly when you receive them.

 They should have a chance to air out between uses, 

so you should wear one pair one day and another pair 

the next. 

 Scrape dirt or mud from boots and wash with just a 

little water and soap. 

 Wipe insides dry with a clean cloth and remove all 

soapsuds from the outside. 

 Stuff paper in the toes and let boots dry in a warm, dry 

place. 

 Do not put boots in the hot sun or next to a strong 

source of heat. 

 Let boots dry. 

 Heels of boots should be replaced after wear of 7/16 

of an inch or more. 

Insignia placement

Each Soldier is responsible for having the correct insignia 

properly placed on their uniform, as follows: 

Shoulder sleeve insignia. 

Soldiers in both BCT and AIT who are in one of the following 

categories may wear organizational shoulder sleeve 

insignia. Wear this insignia centered on the left sleeve. 
74 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Subdued shoulder sleeve insignia will be worn on all field 

and work uniforms.

 Army National Guard (ARNG) and United States Army 

Reserve (USAR) trainees are authorized to wear the 

insignia of their parent ARNG or USAR organization 

from the start of training. 

 Unit-of-choice trainees are authorized to wear, from 

the start of training, the insignia of the specific unit for 

which they enlisted. 

“U.S. ARMY" insignia: ACU

 Worn immediately above and parallel to the top edge 

of the left chest pocket.

 This insignia consists of black, 3/4-inch high block 

letters on a 1-inch wide by 4-1/2 inch long (or to the 

edges of the pocket flap) strip. The background can 

be either olive green or the universal camouflage 

pattern.

Name tape: ACU

 Worn immediately above and parallel to the top edge 

of the right chest pocket of all field and work uniform 

coats and shirts.

 It consists of black letters on a 1-inch wide by 4-1/2 

inch long (or to the edges of the pocket flap) strip of 

cloth. 

 Names of 10 letters or less will be printed in 3/4-inch 

high Franklin Gothic Condensed.
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 75

 Names of 11 letters or more will be printed in 1/2-inch 

high Franklin Gothic Extra Condensed.

 The name and U.S. Army tapes will be the same 

length.

Grade insignia: Army Combat Uniform / Operational 

Camouflage Pattern (OCP)

Soldiers wear subdued (cloth) last name and U.S. Army 

identification insignia attached to Velcro. Grade insignia is 

attached to Velcro area provided in center of the jacket flap. 

Soldier may sew on the U.S Army tape, name tape, rank 

and all authorized badges, as an option.

Rank insignia placement

Belts and Buckles
76 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

The rigger, sand or tan 499 rigger belt will be worn with

the ACU (OCP).

The rigger belt is worn with the attached black, openfaced buckle. It is worn so that the tipped end passes

through the buckle to the wearer’s left; the end will not 

extend more than 2 inches beyond the edge of the 

buckle. The belt’s end may be neatly trimmed to ensure a 

proper fit. Information of Army Uniforms is located in 

Army Regulation 670-1 

http://www.apd.army.mil/pdffiles/p670_1.pdf
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 77

The Improved Outer Tactical Vest (GEN II) Video Donning 

Doffing:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1CtmLG45k_A&fe

ature=youtu.be
78 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

5-3. Army Service Uniform (ASU)

Enlisted ASU (Male)
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 79

Enlisted ASU (Female)
80 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Grade Insignia: ASU

 The Army white shirt may be worn with or without the 

ASU coat, which is known as the Class B uniform.

 E-4s (Specialists) and below must always wear their 

grade insignia on the collars of the white shirt.

 Corporals and above must wear shoulder board grade 

insignia on the white shirt. 

Grade Insignia, Enlisted Shirt

Male - U.S. and branch insignia
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 81

During initial entry training, males will wear the "U.S." 

insignia disk on both collars. 

The bottom of the insignia disk will be approximately 1-inch 

above the notch where the collar meets the lapel, centered 

between the seam and the outside edge of the collar. The 

"U.S." or branch insignia will be canted parallel to the inside 

edge of the lapel on the ASU coat.

After completing AIT or OSUT, male Soldiers will wear 

military occupational specialty branch insignia on their left 

collar. 

On the male ASU jacket, the nametag will be worn on the 

right pocket flap, centered between the top of the pocket 

and the top of the button, centered on the flap and parallel to 

the ground.

Regimental crest will be worn 1/8-inch above the top of the 

right pocket and centered.

Ribbons will be worn 1/8-inch above the top of the left 

pocket, centered on the pocket, and parallel to the floor.

Qualification badges will be worn 1/8-inch down from the top 

of the pocket and centered on the flap with at least 1-inch 

between badges if two are worn, and evenly spaced if three 

are worn. 
82 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

U.S and Branch Insignia, Enlisted Male

Female - U.S. and branch insignia

During initial-entry training, females will wear the "U.S." 

insignia on both collars.

The bottom of the insignia disk will be worn approximately

5/8-inch above the notch where the collar meets the lapel, 

centered between the seam and the outside edge of the 

collar. The "U.S." or branch insignia will be positioned 

parallel to the inside edge of the lapel on the ASU coat.

After completing AIT or OSUT, female Soldiers will wear 

military occupational specialty branch insignia on their left 

collar.

On the female ASU coat, the bottom edge of the nameplate 

will be 1 to 2 inches above the top of the top button, 

centered on the right side of the uniform and parallel to the 

ground.
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 83

The regimental crest will be worn 1⁄2-inch above the name 

plate or 1⁄4 inch above any unit awards or foreign badges 

that are worn.

The bottom edge of the ribbons will be parallel to the bottom 

edge of the name plate, and centered on the jacket.

The Qualification badges will be 1⁄4 -inch below and centered 

on the ribbons, with 1-inch between badges. 

U.S and Branch Insignia, Enlisted Female

Belts and Buckles

The belt issued to Soldier’s to wear with the ASU is black 

webbed with a nickel under-plate for males and black cotton 

web for females.
84 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Patrol Cap

The patrol cap is the standard headgear worn with the 

combat uniform in the garrison environment. The

patrol cap has a visor, circular top crown, side crown with an 

outside crown band, and a hook-and-loop pad on the back 

of the patrol cap

Soldiers will wear the patrol cap straight on the head so that 

the cap band creates a straight line around the

head, parallel to the ground. The patrol cap will fit snugly 

and comfortably around the largest part of the head without

bulging or distortion from the intended shape of the 

headgear and without excessive gaps. No rolling of, 

blocking, or alterations to the cap are authorized. Rank 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 85

insignia will be wore center front of the cap between the top 

seam and the bottom seam

Beret

The beret is worn so that the headband (edge binding) is 

straight across the forehead, 1 inch above the eyebrows.

The flash is positioned over the left eye, and the excess 

material is draped over to the right ear, so it is extended to 

at least the top of the ear, and no lower than the middle of 

the ear.

Wear of Beret (Male and Female)
86 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Personnel will cut off the ends of the adjusting ribbon and 

secure the ribbon knot inside the edge binding at the back of 

the beret.

When worn properly, the beret is formed to the shape of the 

head; therefore, Soldiers may not wear hairstyles that cause 

distortion of the beret. 

Note: IET Soldiers will not wear unit insignia on the beret 

until they arrive at their first unit of assignment.

5-4. Awards and Decorations

Personal Decorations and Awards

Personal decorations and awards are bestowed upon an 

individual for his or her act of heroism, specific act of 

gallantry, or for meritorious service during military or nonmilitary feats. 

Collective (Unit) Citations

Collective citations are made to an operating unit for 

outstanding performance inside or outside of the U.S. It is 

worn by only those persons who were members of that unit 

during the action or period specified by the award. 

Medals Commemorative, campaign, and service medals are 

issued to Soldiers who take part in particular campaigns or 

periods of service for which a medal is authorized.
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 87

Ribbons representing the medals issued are normally worn 

on the ASUs. Some units, such as the 3rd Infantry (Old 

Guard) wear the full-size medals on their uniforms.

Ribbons

The Army Service Ribbon is awarded to Soldiers who 

successfully complete OSUT or 

AIT. More information can be 

found in AR 600-8-22.

Marksmanship Badges

Marksmanship badges are awarded to individuals who 

qualify, because they have demonstrated some special 

proficiency or skill. Marksmanship badges are worn to 

indicate the individual’s prowess with specific weapons, 

pistols, and/or rifles and during specified competitions, 

matches, or practice exercises. You will earn one of the 

marksmanship badges during BCT.
88 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Chapter 6 – Critical Information Required for 

BCT / OSUT / AIT

6-1. Rank Insignia

Military customs and courtesies dictate that you render the 

appropriate greeting and salute to officers when you 

encounter them in the performance of your duties. 

This chart can assist you in understanding the Army rank 

structure. The individual’s title reflects the rank of the 

person. You should never address a person by their pay 

grade.

Title Pay 

Grade Rank Remarks

Private (PVT) E-1

No 

Chevron

Private (PV2) E-2

Private First 

Class (PFC) E-3
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 89

Specialist 

(SPC) E-4

NCOs are "the backbone" of the Army. They are 

responsible for executing a military organization's 

mission and serve as the principal instructor for training 

military personnel so they are prepared to execute those 

missions. 

Senior NCOs are considered the primary link between 

enlisted personnel and the commissioned officers. If 

they are the senior NCO in a staff section they may be 

referred to as an NCO-in-charge (NCOIC). Their advice 

and guidance is particularly important for junior officers, 

who begin their careers in a position of authority but 

generally lack practical experience.

Corporal 

(CPL) E-4

A SPC 

recognized with 

NCO authorities

Sergeant 

(SGT) E-5 Team leader
90 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Staff 

Sergeant 

(SSG)

E-6

Squad leader or 

section chief

Sergeant 

First Class 

(SFC)

E-7

Senior NCO in a 

platoon

Master 

Sergeant 

(MSG)

E-8

NCOIC at 

battalion and 

brigade

First 

Sergeant 

(1SG)

E-8

Senior NCO in a 

company; 

advisor to the 

commander

Sergeant 

Major (SGM) E-9

Principal 

advisor on a 

battalion and 

higher HQs staff

Command 

Sergeant 

Major (CSM)

E-9

Senior enlisted 

advisor at 

battalion and 

higher HQs
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 91

Sergeant 

Major of the 

Army (SMA)

E-9

Senior NCO in 

the Army; 

advisor to the 

Chief of Staff of 

the Army

Warrant Officers are highly specialized technicians and 

trainers in their career fields. By gaining progressive 

levels of expertise and leadership, these leaders provide 

valuable guidance to commanders and subordinate 

Soldiers in their units. 

Warrant 

Officer 1 

(WO1)

W-1

Company and 

battalion staffs

Chief Warrant 

Officer 2 

(CW2)

W-2

Company and 

battalion staffs

Chief Warrant 

Officer 3 

(CW3)

W-3

Company and 

higher staffs

Chief Warrant 

Officer 4 

(CW4)

W-4

Battalion and 

higher staffs
92 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Chief Warrant 

Officer 5 

(CW5)

W-5

Brigade and 

higher staffs

Commissioned Officers are responsible for planning and 

leading demanding missions while ensuring the welfare, 

morale and professional development of the Soldiers 

entrusted to them.

At the Captain, Lieutenant Colonel and Colonel level 

they may serve as commanders for companies, 

battalions and brigades. In that capacity, they have 

disciplinary authorities over you under the Uniformed 

Code of Military Justice.

2

nd

Lieutenant 

(2LT)

O-1 Platoon Leader

1

st Lieutenant 

(1LT) O-2

Company 

Executive 

Officer

Captain (CPT) O-3

Company 

Commander; 

Battalion Staff 

Officer
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 93

Major (MAJ) O-4

Battalion 

Executive 

Officer; Brigade 

Staff Officer

Lieutenant 

Colonel (LTC) O-5

Battalion 

Commander; 

Division Staff 

Officer

Colonel 

(COL) O-6

Brigade 

Commander; 

Division Staff 

Officer

General Officers are commissioned officers who serve 

as commanders at division-size units and larger, as 

commanders of installations, and as principal advisors to 

senior national and state civilian leaders and higherranking general officers. 

Brigadier 

General (BG) O-7

Major 

General (MG) O-8
94 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Lieutenant 

General 

(LTG)

O-9

General 

(GEN) O-10

6-2. Customs and Courtesies

Saluting

The origin of the hand salute is uncertain. Some historians 

believe it began in late Roman times when assassinations 

were common. A citizen who wanted to see a public official 

had to approach with his right hand raised to show that he 

did not hold a weapon. Knights in armor raised visors with 

the right hand when meeting a comrade. This practice 

gradually became a way of showing respect and in early 

American history sometimes involved removing the hat. By 

1820, the motion was modified to touching the hat, and 

since then has become the hand salute used today. 

While in the Army, you salute to show respect toward an 

officer, flag, or our country. The proper way to salute with 

or without a weapon is described in Training Circular (TC) 

3-21.5, paragraph 4-4. When to salute is covered by 

Army Regulation (AR) 600-25.

Follow these rules:
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 95

When you meet someone outside, salute as soon as you 

recognize that he or she is an officer, or if you are walking 

toward the officer, wait until you are about six steps away.

Salute all officers (recognized by grade) in official vehicles 

identified by special plates or flags.

Salute only on command when in a formation.

If in a group and an officer approaches, the first Soldier to 

recognize the officer calls the group to attention and all

personnel salute.

If you approach an officer while you are double-timing alone, 

assume quick time, render the hand salute and give the 

proper greeting. When the salute is returned, execute order 

arms and resume double-time.

The salute is always initiated by the subordinate and 

terminated only after acknowledgment by the individual 

saluted.

Accompany the salute with an appropriate greeting, such as, 

"Good morning/afternoon, sir /ma'am."

Salutes are not required to be rendered by or to personnel 

who are driving or riding in privately owned vehicles.

It is not customary for enlisted personnel to exchange 

salutes, except in some ceremonial situations.

Never render a salute with a noticeable object in your mouth 

or right hand. 
96 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

If you are on detail and an officer approaches, salute if you 

are in charge of the detail. Otherwise, continue to work. 

When spoken to, come to the position of attention while 

addressing an officer.

Hand salute

The Hand Salute is a one-count movement. The command 

is Present, ARMS. The Hand Salute may be executed 

while marching. When marching, only the Soldier in charge 

of the formation salutes. 

When wearing headgear with a visor (with or without 

glasses), on the command of execution ARMS, raise the 

right hand sharply, fingers and thumb extended and joined, 

palm facing down, and place the tip of the right forefinger on 

the rim of the visor slightly to the right of the right eye. The 

outer edge of the hand is barely canted downward so that 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 97

neither the back of the hand nor the palm is clearly visible 

from the front. The hand and wrist are straight, the elbow 

inclined slightly forward, and the upper arm horizontal.

When wearing headgear without a visor (or uncovered) and 

not wearing glasses, execute the Hand Salute in the same 

manner as previously described, except touch the tip of the 

right forefinger to the forehead near and slightly to the right 

of the right eyebrow.

When wearing headgear without a visor (or uncovered) and 

wearing glasses, execute the Hand Salute in the same 

manner as previously described, except touch the tip of the 

right forefinger to that point on the glasses where the temple 

piece of the frame meets the right edge of the right brow. 

Order Arms

Order Arms from the Hand Salute is a one-count movement. 

The command is Order, ARMS. On the command of 

execution ARMS, return the hand sharply to the side, 

resuming the Position of Attention. 

When reporting or rendering courtesy to an individual, turn 

the head and eyes toward the person addressed and 

simultaneously salute. In this situation, the actions are 

executed without command. The Salute is initiated by the 

subordinate at the appropriate time (six paces) and 

terminated upon acknowledgment. 

Rendering customs and courtesies to NCOs and 

Warrant Officers
98 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

When addressing an NCO you will need to be at the position 

of Parade Rest. The NCO may direct you to At ease, Stand 

at Ease; or Rest.

When walking with someone of higher rank, walk on the left 

side of the individual.

Always greet individuals with the greeting of the day.

Be respectful at all times.

Warrant Officers will be treated in the same respect as 

Officers. 

Rendering Honor to the Flag

The flag of the U.S. is the symbol of our nation. The union, 

white stars on a field of blue, is the honor point of the flag. 

The union of the flag and the flag itself, when in company 

with other flags, are always given the honor position, which 

is on the right. 

The flag of the U.S. is displayed outdoors at all Army 

installations.

The flag is displayed daily from reveille to retreat. If 

illuminated, it may be displayed at night during special 

events or on special occasions deemed appropriate by the 

commander. 

When the flag is being raised in the morning or lowered in 

the evening, stand at attention on the first note of Reveille or 

"To the Color.” "Color" refers to the flag of the U.S. and can 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 99

include the unit flag. Give the required salute. You normally 

face the flag when saluting, unless duty requires you to face 

in some other direction. At the conclusion of the ceremony, 

resume your regular duties.

The flag, when flown at half-staff, is hoisted to the peak/top 

of the flagpole and then lowered to the half-staff position. At 

the end of the day, the flag is hoisted to the peak before 

lowered. "Half-staff" means lowering the flag to one-half the 

distance between the top and bottom of the staff. 

Whenever Reveille or To the Color is played, and you are 

not in formation and not in a vehicle, come to attention at the 

first note, face the flag, and give the required salute. If no 

flag is near, face the music and salute. If you are in 

formation, salute only on the order "Present arms.” If you 

are in civilian clothing, stand at attention and place your right 

hand over your heart. 

Courtesies

The following rules will help you conduct yourself 

appropriately in the presence of officers and those senior in 

grade:

When talking to an Officer or Warrant Officer, stand at 

attention unless given the order "At ease.” When you are 

dismissed, or when the officer departs, come to attention 

and salute.

When an officer enters a room, the first Soldier to recognize 

the officer calls personnel in the room to attention but does 
100 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

not salute. When a Soldier reports indoors render a salute 

to the officer.

When accompanying a senior, walk on his left. 

When an officer enters a dining facility, unless he directs 

otherwise or a more senior officer is already present, the 

diners will be given the order "At ease" by the first person 

who sees the officer. You will remain seated at ease and 

will continue eating unless the officer directs otherwise. If 

you are directly addressed, you should rise to attention

when seated in a chair. If you are seated on a bench, stop 

eating and sit at attention until the conversation ends.

Note: The officer or NCO may give the directive "Carry on.” 

This means the Soldier or Soldiers should continue with 

whatever they were doing previously. This same directive is 

used in many other situations outside of formation, such as 

in the barracks and break areas.

When outdoors and approached by an NCO, you should 

stand (when seated) and greet the NCO by saying, "Good 

morning, sergeant," "Good afternoon, sergeant," or "Good 

evening, sergeant (last name, if known)."

While going through BCT, you will address all Drill 

Sergeants as “Drill Sergeant”.

When you report to an officer and you are outdoors, 

approach the officer, stop about two steps from him, and 

assume the position of attention. Give the proper salute and 

say, for example, "Sir/Ma'am, Private Smith reports.” If you 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 101

are indoors, use the same procedures as above, except 

remove your headgear before reporting.

6-3. Bugle Calls

Bugle calls are the musical signals that announce scheduled 

and certain non-scheduled events on an Army installation. 

Scheduled calls are prescribed by the installation 

commander. According to Army customs, bugle calls 

traditionally signal troops for everything from meal times and 

recall formations, to rendering honors to the nation. Bugle 

calls normally sound in accordance with the major calls of 

the day-Reveille, Retreat, and Taps.

Reveille

The call signals the troops to awaken for morning roll 

call. Most often heard at physical training, it is used to 

accompany the raising of the National Colors. If outdoors at 

the first sound of Reveille, you should come to the position 

of attention and salute, facing the flag or the sound of the 

music. If not in uniform, come to attention and place your 

right hand over your heart.
102 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Retreat

The call signals the end of the duty day and lowering of the 

National Colors. If alone, you should come to attention in the 

direction of the music or flag. Then, salute when you hear 

the first note of music after the cannon sounds. If not in 

uniform, come to attention and place your right hand over 

your heart.

Taps

The call signals that unauthorized lights are to be 

extinguished. It is the last call of the day. The call is also 

sounded at the completion of a military funeral ceremony. 

You should come to attention and salute until the music 

completes. If not in uniform, come to attention and place 

your right hand over your heart.

6-4. Drill and Ceremonies

Many drill procedures used by the U.S. Army today were 

developed during the Revolutionary War. The purpose of 

the drill then was to instill discipline in American Soldiers. 

As these Soldiers mastered the art of the drill, they began to 

work as a team and develop a sense of pride in themselves 

and in their unit. 

In today's Army, the same objectives–teamwork, 

confidence, pride, alertness, attention to detail, esprit de 

corps, and discipline are accomplished by drill. 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 103

A drill consists of a series of movements by which a unit or 

individuals are moved in an orderly, uniform manner from 

one formation or place to another. Units vary in size, but in 

BCT, you will ordinarily be part of a squad, platoon, 

company or battalion. 

You will need to know the following drill terms: 

Element is an individual, squad, section, platoon, company, 

or larger unit formed as part of the next higher unit. 

Formation is an arrangement of the unit's elements in a 

prescribed manner such as a line formation in which the 

elements are side-by-side, or a column formation in which 

the elements are one behind the other. In a platoon column, 

the members of each squad are one behind the other with 

the squads abreast. 

Front is a space from one side to the other side of a 

formation, and includes the right and left elements. 

Depth is a space from the front to the rear of a formation, 

including the front and rear elements. 

Distance is the space between elements that are one 

behind the other. The distance between individuals is an 

arm's length, plus 6 inches, or approximately 36 inches 

measured from the chest of one Soldier to the back of the 

Soldier immediately to his front. 

Interval is the space between side-by-side elements. 
104 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Rank is a line that is only one element in depth. 

File is a column that has a front of one element. 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 105

Guide is the person responsible for maintaining the 

prescribed direction and rate of march. 

Post is the correct place for an officer or NCO to stand in a 

prescribed formation.

Head is a column's leading element. Base is the element 

around which a movement is planned or regulated. 
106 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Cadence is a uniform rhythm or number of steps or counts 

per minute. 

Quick Time is a cadence of 120 counts (steps per minute). 

Double Time is a cadence of 180 counts (steps per minute). 

Drill commands are oral orders given by your commander 

or leader, usually in two parts. The preparatory command 

states the movement to be carried out and gets you ready to 

execute the order. The command of execution tells when 

the movement is to be carried out. In the command 

“Forward, march,” the preparatory command is “Forward,” 

the command of execution is “March.” 

In some commands, the preparatory command and the 

command of execution are combined. For example, “Fall in,” 

“at ease,” and “Rest.” These commands are given without 

inflection and at a uniformly high pitch and loudness 

comparable to that of a normal command of execution.

If you are in a group of three or more, marching is required 

when moving from one location to another.

Most marching movements are a five-step process. This 

can be simplified into the acronym PICAA:

P-preparatory command 

I-intermediate step 

C-command of execution 

A-action step

A-additional step.
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 107

Put simply, the Preparatory command, the Command of 

execution and the Action step—executing the movement—

are all given or executed when the same foot strikes the 

marching surface. The Intermediate step and Additional step 

are executed with the other foot.

Chapter 7 – Physical Readiness

As a Soldier, you are required to maintain a high level of 

personal readiness and resilience. Optimal personal 

readiness in building and maintaining the Soldier Athlete 

requires you to get sufficient sleep, maintain physical fitness 

and strength, and fuel your body with the right diet. These 

three key attributes (sleep, activity, and nutrition) are often 

described as the Performance Triad. 

The Performance Triad along with regular hygiene and 

resilience skills ensure you are prepared to perform at the 

elite level regardless of your MOS/Duty. 

You can get more information on the Performance Triad at 

http://armymedicine.mil/Pages/performance-triad.aspx. A 

smartphone application for both iphone and android 

platforms is available. 

7-1. Army Physical Fitness Uniform (APFU)

The components of the APFU are:

1. Jacket, running, black and gold.

2. Pants, running, black.
108 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

3. Trunks, running, black, moisture-wicking.

4. T-shirt, black, short sleeve, moisture-wicking.

5. T-shirt, black, long sleeve, moisture-wicking.

6. Cap, knit, black 

The only insignia authorized for wear on the APFU is the 

Physical Fitness Badge. When the physical fitness badge is 

worn, it is sewn on the upper left front side of the APFU Tshirt. On the APFU running jacket, the insignia is sewn 

centered 1⁄2 inch above the word “Army.”

Soldiers are authorized to wear commercially purchased 

black spandex shorts under the APFU trunks. The length of 

the shorts must end above the knee or higher. The 

commercial shorts must be plain, with no logos, patterns, or 

obtrusive markings. Soldiers are not required to buy 

spandex shorts. This is an optional purchase.

Only pregnant Soldiers are authorized to wear the APFU 

shirt outside of the trunks.

Commanders may authorize the wear of commercial 

running shoes, calf-length or ankle-length plain white/black

socks with no logos, gloves, reflective belts or vests, long 

underwear, and other items appropriate to the weather 

conditions and type of activity. If Soldiers wear long 

underwear or other similar items, they must conceal them 

from view when wearing the running jacket and pants of the 

APFU.
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 109

7-2. Army physical fitness test (APFT)

References:

 FM 7-22, Army Physical Readiness Training

 DA Form 705, Army Physical Fitness Test Scorecard

The intent of the APFT is to provide an assessment of your 

physical readiness. 

Physical Fitness testing is designed to ensure that every 

Soldier is maintaining a high level of physical performance, 

regardless of MOS or duty assignment. 
110 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

7-3. APFT Standards.
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 111

Push-Ups

PU Age 17-21 Age 22-26 Age 27-31

Points M F M F M F

100 71 42 75 46 77 50

80 57 31 58 32 58 34

60 42 19 40 17 39 17

50 35 13 31 11 30 10

Sit-Ups

SU Age 17-21 Age 22-26 Age 27-31

Points M F M F M F

100 76 76 80 80 82 82

80 66 66 65 65 64 64

60 53 53 50 50 45 45

50 47 47 43 43 36 36
112 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

2-Mile Run

2-Mile Age 17-21 Age 22-26 Age 27-31

Points M F M F M F

100 13:00 15:36 13:00 15:36 13:18 15:48

80 14:24 17:12 14:48 17:36 15:06 18:12

60 15:54 18:54 16:36 19:36 17:00 20:30

50 16:36 19:42 17:30 20:36 17:54 21:42

APFT Scorecard – Your Progress...

#1 #2 #3

Points Event Score Event Score Event Score

PU

SU

Run

Total
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 113

The APFT provides a measure of upper and lower body 

muscular endurance. It is a performance test that indicates 

a Soldier’s ability to perform physically and handle his or her 

own body weight. APFT standards are adjusted for age and 

physiological differences between male and female. 

The APFT consists of three events:

1. Push-ups

2. Sit-ups

3. 2-mile run

The events are performed in that order and on the same 

day. Soldiers are allowed a minimum of 10 minutes and a 

maximum of 20 minutes rest between events. All three 

events must be completed within two hours. 

Soldiers in BCT must attain 50 points in each event and an 

overall score of 150 points to meet APFT minimum 

standards. You should push yourself to achieve your 

maximum performance in each event. 

Soldiers in AIT and OSUT must attain a score of at least 60 

points on each event and an overall score of at least 180 

points to graduate. 

The maximum score a Soldier can attain on the APFT is 300 

points. This should be your goal. 
114 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Chapter 8 – Health and Safety

8-1. Nutrition

Fuel the body for optimal performance

As a Soldier, you are expected to achieve and maintain a 

high level of fitness – physical and mental. Fitness is not 

only achieved by your training, but also by how you fuel your 

body. Fueling with the wrong foods will lead to mental and 

physical fatigue and could play a large part in injuries and 

illnesses. The right kinds of food can be found in Army 

dining facilities and in the civilian world—optimal fueling 

requires a little knowledge, a little restraint, and a dedication 

to the Army Ethos that you have chosen. 

Remember: You can’t “out-exercise” a poor diet.

Fueling with the right amount of carbohydrates, protein, and 

healthy fats promotes energy, endurance, stamina, and 

muscle growth. Benefits of proper fueling include:

 Maintaining a healthy weight

 Decreasing post-exercise muscle soreness

 Stronger and healthier muscles

To create a winning eating pattern, keep these 

concepts in mind:

1. Eat at least 3-5 different kinds of nutrient-dense 

foods at each meal. The more types of food you eat, 

the more vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients you 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 115

consume.

 Five Food groups- Mealtime Visual.

General guidelines are to have:

1⁄2 of your plate full of a variety of fruits and vegetables

1⁄4 of your plate composed of complex carbohydrates 

1⁄4 of your plate in the form of protein. 

Portion sizes will vary based on your energy needs and 

performance goals.

Think in terms of the following:

Energy: Fuel your body with complex carbohydrates and 

healthy fats.

2. Enjoy all foods in moderation. Aim for an eating pattern 
116 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

that provides 85-90% nutrient-dense foods, and 10-15% 

foods with fewer nutritional merits.

The Go For Green® labeling program in the dining facilities 

can assist you in choosing nutrient-dense foods.
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 117

3. Make an effort to choose minimally processed, 

wholesome foods. 

 Whole grains and starches are the foundation of 

a high performance eating pattern. Grains are an excellent 

sources of carbohydrates, fiber, and B vitamins. They are 

the primary fuel for your muscles and brain, protect against 

muscular fatigue, and can reduce problems with 

constipation if high in fiber.

 Sources: Whole-grain cereals (i.e. Total®, 

CheeriosTM, Kashi®, Shredded Wheat, Granola), oatmeal, 

whole-grain bread, brown rice, and quinoa

 Vegetables are excellent sources of vitamin C, 

beta-carotene, potassium, magnesium, and many other 

vitamins, minerals, and other health-protective substances. 

Fresh vegetables are the best, but frozen vegetables are 

also a good second choice.

Sources: raw or cooked broccoli, spinach, peppers, 

tomatoes, carrots

 Fruits add to the strong carbohydrate foundation for your 

performance eating pattern. Fruits are rich in fiber, 

potassium, and many other vitamins, especially vitamin C. 

The nutrients found in fruits can aid in recovery after 

exercise and improve healing. Sources: whole fruit (i.e. 

bananas, apples, oranges, grapes), 100% fruit juice, dried 

fruit
118 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

 Protein rich foods from animal and plant sources 

should be eaten as a complement to the carbohydrate found 

in fruits, vegetables and grains. These foods provide the 

amino acids you need to build and repair muscles.

Sources: chicken and turkey, fish, lean beef (i.e. top round, 

eye of round, round tip), peanut butter, legumes (i.e. kidney 

beans, black beans, etc.), and soy protein (i.e. tofu)

 Dairy and calcium-rich foods are a quick and 

easy sources of protein, vitamin D, and calcium. Calcium 

and vitamin D help to maintain strong teeth and bones.

Sources: low-fat (1%) or nonfat milk (skim), low-fat or 

nonfat yogurt, green leafy vegetables

4. Eat the right kinds of fat.

 Limit intake of “hard” saturated fats

Sources: fat found on animal protein, butter

 Use more “soft” unsaturated fats

Sources: olive oil, canola oil, fish, avocado, peanut butter, 

nuts and seeds

 Avoid trans fats (partially hydrogenated oils)

Sources: found in commercially prepared foods such as 

crackers, cakes, cookies, chips, and pastries
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 119

Stay Hydrated

Fluid needs vary greatly from person to person, and 

depend on intensity of work, level of heat stress, and sweat 

rates. The first step to being well hydrated is to drink fluids 

and eat foods high in water content throughout the day. 

Cool water is the beverage of choice for maintaining 

hydration. Recommended fluid intake ranges from 2 to 5 

quarts per day.

You may have a need for extra salt (a source of sodium) 

depending on the severity of sweat loss and the degree in 

which you are adapted (acclimatized) to the heat*. The 

consumption of food and beverages and adding salt to 

foods are the preferred methods to replacing sodium 

losses.

Sports drinks may be an option for sodium replacement if 

you are not consuming enough food during training and/or 

you are not acclimated to the heat*. Avoid putting sports 

drinks in your wearable hydration system, as this will 

increase the risk of harmful bacteria or mold growth.

*NOTE: heat acclimatization may take up to 21 days or 

more for untrained Soldiers.
120 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

The simplest way to 

determine if you are 

adequately replacing the 

fluid lost through sweat is to 

check the color and quantity 

of your urine. If your urine is 

dark and scanty, you need 

to drink more fluids or eat 

more foods with a high 

water content 

Fluids = water, sports 

drinks, 100% fruit juice, 

milk, milk alternatives (soy, 

almond)

Foods = high-water-content 

fruits and vegetables, soup, 

yogurt

Be smart about energy 

drinks

Energy drinks are not the 

same as sports drinks and should never be used for 

hydration — cool, plain water should always be a first choice 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 121

for hydration. Energy drinks generally contain large 

quantities of caffeine and may contain other ingredients, 

most of which do absolutely nothing to enhance 

performance or health. Also, the large quantities of caffeine 

can actually aggravate dehydration, and may also lead to 

increased anxiety, upset stomach, shakiness, headaches, 

and sleep issues. 

These potential side effects can actually reduce your ability 

to perform, NOT enhance it. Instead of reaching for energy 

drinks, it’s best to feed your body energy throughout the 

day: 

 Snack on carbohydrates and energy-rich foods such 

as dried fruits, nuts, trail mix, a commercial sports bar 

or low-fat chocolate milk. 

 Drink cool, plain water frequently, even if you aren’t 

thirsty. 

Dietary supplements

Many Soldiers use dietary supplements to improve 

performance, increase muscle mass, enhance energy, 

accelerate recovery, increase alertness, boost their 

immune system, and improve joint function. However, 

dietary supplements are not tested or approved by the

Food and Drug Administration prior to being placed on the 

market, are often unnecessary, and can be dangerous and

expensive.
122 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Operation Supplement Safety (OPSS) is a joint initiative 

between the Human Performance Resources Center 

(HPRC) and the Department of Defense (DoD) to educate 

Service Members and retirees, their family members, 

leaders, healthcare providers, and DoD civilians about 

dietary supplements and how to choose supplements 

wisely. The OPSS website (https://www.opss.org/) 

provides easy access to updated materials and databases 

for you to stay informed and make healthy dietary 

supplement choices.

8-2. Sleep

The disciplined practices in sleep, activity, and nutrition

comprise the Army’s “performance triad.” By following the 

habits outlined below you will do the most for yourself to 

maximize performance, and avoid illness and injury. 

Make Sleep A Priority - Sleep is a biological need for brain 

functioning and is critical for sustaining the mental abilities 

required for success in basic combat training and advanced 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 123

individual training. Soldiers require a minimum of 7-8 hours 

of sleep every 24-hours. 

In basic combat training, you will have the opportunity for at 

least 7 hours of continuous sleep per night (unless you are 

scheduled for duty such as access control guard/fireguard or 

charge of quarter’s runner). 

During field training, the length of the training day and time 

for sleep will vary based on training requirements; however, 

your commander will ensure that the schedule allows 

sufficient time for sleep during field training. 

The MOST IMPORTANT THING YOU MUST REMEMBER: 

When you have the opportunity to sleep, do it. Insufficient 

sleep presents a risk to mission success. Sleep deprived 

Soldiers are likely to make mission critical and sometimes 

fatal errors. 

The demanding nature of military operations often creates 

situations in which obtaining enough sleep on a regular 

basis is difficult or impossible. Such chronic, insufficient 

sleep (anything less than 7—8 hours per 24) produces a 

sleep debt – a chronic state of increased sleep need that is 

characterized by impaired performance and readiness. 

The only way to eliminate the debt is to obtain sleep (just 

closing your eyes and resting is not the same as 

sleeping/napping). As a Soldier you must make sleep a 

priority!

When you have the opportunity to rest or sleep, do it.
124 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

8-3. Activity

During BCT you will obviously maintain a high level of 

activity. However once you graduate from AIT or OSUT, 

you will have much more control over your level of 

activity. You will need recreational-type activities to 

maintain your optimum performance; Army physical 

readiness training and the other high-physical demands 

of your duties will not provide all the physical activity 

you need.

Physical activity is more than just “exercise” or “working 

out”- it’s living an active lifestyle. Whether it’s walking 

the dog, doing yard work, or playing with your kids, 

regular movement throughout the day inspires positive 

health outcomes over time.

Physical activity improves health in the following ways:

 Lowers risk of some chronic diseases and 

conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood 

pressure, stroke, and cancer (e.g. breast, colon).

 Aids in weight loss and prevents weight gain. 

 Helps manage stress and may reduce 

depression.

 Strengthens bones, muscles, and joints.

 Boosts confidence and self-esteem.
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 125

Amount and types of physical activity. To receive 

positive health outcomes you need at least:

 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity 

per week. 150 minutes is also: 2 hours & 30 

minutes per week OR 30 minutes a day for 5 days 

OR 10 minutes of activity 3 times a day for 5 

days.

 2 days of muscle strengthening activities (e.g. 

weight/resistance band training, calisthenics, 

yoga).

 10,000 steps during your everyday routine. (Note:

10,000 steps is close to 5 miles. An inactive 

person may only average 1,000 to 3,000 steps a 

day, or about one mile. Persons who walk no 

farther than this in a normal day should add 

walking to their routines.

Save time by bumping up the intensity. Do 75 minutes 

of vigorous-intensity activities per week (e.g., jogging, 

swimming laps, or hiking uphill). 

 Pick activities you enjoy. Moderate-intensity 

activities include: brisk walking, doubles tennis, 

golf, and leisure biking. 

 Invite Family, friends, and fellow Soldiers to join you. 

Take a fitness class, join a recreation league, sign up 

for a 5K run/walk, or start a walking group in your 

neighborhood. 
126 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

8-4. Hygiene

In addition to Army training, personal hygiene plays a crucial 

role in your overall physical readiness as a strong, 

productive Soldier. There are numerous health concerns 

that can arise if you do not conduct proper personal hygiene 

at home and in field environments.

Hazard of communicable diseases

Communicable diseases are caused by specific infectious 

organisms like viruses or bacteria transmitted from one 

person to another. The person who is infected may feel sick 

and look sick, or might carry the illness without feeling or 

looking sick. These diseases can rapidly degrade the 

medical readiness of military units and their ability to carry 

out their mission. They can also cause significant suffering 

and overwhelm the military health care system. 

You received vaccinations to protect you against the 

increased risk of these infections when you entered the 

Army, and you will receive additional vaccinations prior to 

traveling to foreign areas. There are many communicable 

illnesses that do not have vaccines such as, the common 

cold and hepatitis C and D.

Resistance to illness

Vaccines do part of the job; the rest is up to you. You are 

immune to most illnesses most of the time because of your 

own immune system. It continues with things you do to 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 127

protect yourself, like keeping yourself and your environment

clean; wearing a clean uniform appropriate for the season; 

and avoiding contact with persons who are ill. Also, you 

should always cough into your arm and clean your hands 

frequently to avoid spreading/receiving germs.

Immediate hazards to your health

Do not take chances with your health. If in doubt, get 

medical help. Injuries that pose a threat to your health or life 

are:

 Any eye injury

 Any human or animal bite that breaks the skin 

 Allergic reaction to an insect bite, chemicals, or 

medications

 Bleeding that cannot be stopped

 Burns, including severe sunburn

 Feeling very hot and/or confused after being out in the 

heat

 Exposure to cold temperatures and you think you may 

have a cold injury

Other symptoms of illnesses that can threaten your health or 

life include:

 Tightness, pressure, or pain in your chest that 

spreads to your neck, jaw, arm, or back 

 Shortness of breath, or wheezing while resting
128 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

 Difficulty breathing, or the feeling of choking

 Coughing up blood

 Difficulty speaking, swallowing, or opening your mouth

 Stiff neck with fever

 Sudden loss of vision

 Very bad pain anywhere on your body

 Weakness and dizziness

 Blood in your urine or brown urine

 Vomiting up blood or what looks like coffee grounds

 Blood in your stool or black, tar-like stools

 You feel like you might hurt yourself or others

 Hip or knee injuries

 Painful teeth or swelling in your mouth or jaw

If you experience any injuries or symptoms of illness, 

report them to your Drill Sergeant immediately to get 

health care.

Bathe / shower daily

Regular bathing with soap and water is important for both 

cleanliness and personal appearance. 

Bathing prevents hygiene-related diseases such as scabies, 

ringworm, athlete’s foot, skin infections, and pink eye. 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 129

You should especially wash your hands, face and ears, 

armpits, groin, and feet. In addition to washing your skin 

regularly you should wash your hair at least twice a week, 

shave daily and, avoid sharing combs or razors with others.

Wash hands regularly

Normally your immune system protects you against invasion 

by bacteria, viruses, and parasites; however, if your hands 

become contaminated with these organisms and you put 

them up to your nose or mouth, disease germs can invade 

your body and cause an infection. 

Many aspects of basic training can make you more 

vulnerable to respiratory illnesses, including close contact 

with other Soldiers.

The physical and psychological stresses of military training 

can make you more vulnerable to illness. In addition, your 

immune system may not be ready to withstand the new 

organisms you are exposed to when first brought together 

as a group. 

Almost 90 percent of Soldiers get symptoms of respiratory 

illness at some point during basic combat training. In most 

cases, these illnesses are mild and trainees are able to 

continue training, but sometimes they progress to worse 

infections like pneumonia or meningitis.

Washing your hands with soap and water is the most 

effective way to prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses 

which are major cause of food borne diseases and other 
130 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

illnesses. Although the use of hand sanitizers is effective for 

killing most of these harmful organisms on the hands, they 

are ineffective on hands that are heavily soiled with dirt, 

grease, and other debris. Therefore the use of hand 

sanitizers should not be used in place of hand washing, 

rather as a supplement to or a temporary alternative when 

hand washing is not available.

Wash or sanitize your hands every time:

 After using the latrine

 Before eating or handling food

 After sneezing or blowing your nose

It is important to practice good hygiene habits when you are 

in basic training, because it will become more difficult to 

wash your hands and bathe regularly when you are in the 

field or deployed. 

Dental health and readiness

Brush and Floss Your Teeth.

Keeping your mouth healthy maintains your dental 

readiness, and ensures that you won’t suffer from pain, 

infection, or inability to eat high-performance foods. Poor 

oral health takes more Soldiers out of the fight than the 

enemy does. 

Wisdom teeth and gum disease cause problems, but most 

dental emergencies are caused by tooth decay or its 

complications. 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 131

Tooth decay is usually caused by bacteria (germs) that feed 

on starchy or sugary snacks and beverages, and by acids 

that wear away the surfaces of teeth. Soda, juice, sweet 

tea, sports drinks and energy drinks all contain sugar and 

acids that can damage teeth. 

Saliva is critical for protecting your teeth from decay by 

neutralizing acids, hardening teeth, and fighting germs. 

Stressful training or operations can decrease saliva flow, 

leaving you vulnerable to decay. 

Prevent dental problems in two ways: watch what you put in 

your mouth, and clean your mouth every day.

Watch what you put in your mouth. 

Follow the guidelines in the Nutrition section above, and you 

will contribute toward a healthy mouth. 

Your teeth and gums need the same water intake, calcium, 

vitamins and minerals, and protein that the rest of your body 

does, as well as protection from sugars, acid content, and 

simple starches. 

In addition to a healthy diet:

 If you drink sugary drinks, make sure they are cold 

and minimize contact with your teeth. You can use a 

straw that reaches to the back of your tongue, or just 

chug the drink down all at once.

 Rinse your mouth with plain water after drinking 

sugary drinks
132 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

 If you drink juice, choose juice that has calcium 

added, to minimize acid damage.

 Use xylitol-sweetened gum or mints for 5-10 minutes 

after meals and snacks to fight cavities.

 Avoid tobacco. Tobacco can cause gum disease and 

oral cancer.

 Use lip balm with sunscreen during sun exposure to 

prevent lip cancer.

Clean your mouth every day:

 Brush 2 - 3 times a day, every day, with fluoride 

toothpaste to remove food particles and harmful 

bacteria from your teeth. Fluoride helps repair early 

stage tooth decay.

 Brush before going to sleep to provide greater 

protection for your teeth.

 Use a soft or ultrasoft toothbrush that is small enough 

to fit around your back teeth.

 Brush your teeth for about 2-3 minutes using a gentle, 

circular motion. Pay extra attention to the gum-line, 

back teeth, and areas around fillings, crowns or 

bridges.

 Brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth to 

remove germs that cause tooth decay and bad breath.
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 133

 If you have an appliance such as an orthodontic 

retainer or partial denture, remove it before brushing 

your teeth. Brush all surfaces of the appliance also.

 Do not rinse your mouth after brushing. Just spit 

several times to remove excess toothpaste. 

 Don’t eat or drink anything for at least 30 minutes 

after you brush so the fluoride will stay on your teeth 

longer and protect them better

 If you can’t brush:

 Swish with water after 

eating or drinking.

 Wipe your teeth with a 

clean cloth wrapped 

around your finger. 

 Rub toothpaste on the 

surfaces of your teeth with your finger.

 Floss once a day. Flossing removes bacteria and 

food in between teeth, where a toothbrush can’t reach

 Use 18 inches of floss. Wrap the end of the floss 

around your middle finger and use your index finger to 

guide the floss. 

 Insert the floss between your teeth. Pull gently side to 

side to get it through the tight spots, but be careful not 

to saw your gums! Use a different area of the floss for 

each space.
134 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

 Gently move the floss up and down against the tooth 

in back, then the tooth in front. 

 Wrap the floss around the teeth as you’re moving it up 

and down. 

 Your gums may bleed at first when you start flossing 

every day. If bleeding continues to happen after a 

week or two of flossing, see your dentist. 

Remember - YOU control whether you get cavities or not! 

Whenever a dentist tells you there is a problem at your 

annual exam, get it treated as soon as possible.

Note: Females should be extra vigilant about brushing with 

fluoride toothpaste 2 or 3 times a day, to prevent cavities 

and bleeding gums. 

This is because females tend to make less saliva than 

males, which can leave them more vulnerable to decay. 

Fluctuations in female hormones 

can also negatively affect oral 

health. Hormones and oral 

contraceptives can increase 

bacteria levels in the mouth and 

cause changes in the blood 

vessels in the gums, leading to

gingivitis. 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 135

Females who have gingivitis can experience an increase in 

symptoms during monthly hormonal fluctuations, resulting in 

tenderness, swelling, and bleeding when brushing. 

Females who use oral contraceptives are also twice as likely 

to develop a dry socket after dental extraction. 

Smoking increases this risk. 

Hormone fluctuations and stressful environments have been 

associated with development of painful mouth ulcers or 

canker sores. 

Nutritional deficiencies (vitamins B1, B2, B6, B12, folate, C 

and iron, magnesium or zinc) may also increase your risk of 

developing mouth ulcers, so eating fruits and vegetables 

can help. 

Over-the-counter remedies are effective for the discomfort 

caused by small ulcers. Larger or more painful ulcers may 

interfere with a normal diet. 

A dentist can prescribe medicine to reduce pain and 

accelerate healing of larger ulcers.

Care for your feet and nails

Athlete’s foot is caused by a fungus that lives in damp, 

warm, and dark areas like shower rooms, rubber boots, and 

old running shoes. 
136 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Athlete’s foot usually looks like little blisters between the 

toes. These can pop, causing itching and little sharp pains. 

Also, the skin might crack or look scaly. 

You can get athlete’s foot from walking barefooted on 

unclean facilities and not washing your feet. 

The symptoms include itching, flaking, and cracking 

between toes or on bottom of feet. 

To prevent Athlete’s foot, do the following:

 Wear shower shoes while taking showers and when 

walking on the floor.

 Use a towel to dry thoroughly between your toes. 

 Wear clean dry socks; never wear another Soldier’s 

socks.

 Clean the showers and latrine floors daily.

 Sprinkle foot powder in your socks to help absorb the 

moisture.

 Remove the inserts from your boots at night to 

prevent fungus from growing. 

If you get athlete’s foot, you need an anti-fungal solution or 

cream to treat it.

Wear one pair of boots one day and change to your other 

pair the next day. 

In addition to preventing Athlete’s foot, you must also make 

sure you prevent ingrown toenails. Ingrown toenails are 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 137

caused by a combination of tight shoes and trimming the 

toenails down to the edge of the nail. 

Symptoms include tenderness, swelling, sharp pain, 

redness, and discharge. 

You can prevent ingrown toenails by trimming nails straight 

across every two weeks. 

Seek medical attention for treatment, for surgery may be 

necessary to remove the nail from the skin. Cut toenails 

short and square

 Trim Your Toenails
138 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Prevent blisters 

Blisters are caused by friction from tight fitting shoes, 

breaking in new boots, and road marches. 

Symptoms are redness and tenderness of the skin. 

All blisters cannot be prevented, but they can be minimized. 

Wearing proper fitting boots and tight fitting, clean, dry socks 

free of excessive wear can prevent most blisters. 

Second skin (mole skin) on “hot spots,” knee-high nylons, 

and good personal hygiene will help reduce chances of 

getting a blister as well.

Also, wear work gloves if working with equipment that you 

will be doing repetitive movements, such as raking or 

shoveling. 

Take the following measures to treat a blister: 

 Wash with a mild soap and water and keep your skin 

clean and dry. Apply a topical anti-biotic ointment to 

prevent infection. 

 Cover with bandage or second skin to prevent from 

opening. 

 DO NOT purposely open a blister. 

 If blister opens, treat as you would any open cut.

 Always leave the top skin of a drained blister.
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 139

 Pulling off the top layer of skin can damage the new 

skin underneath and cause infection. 

Protect your hearing

Survival on the battlefield could depend on your ability to 

hear. Hearing loss caused by noise is painless, 

progressive, permanent, but also preventable. 

To protect your hearing, insert your earplugs correctly 

whenever instructed to wear them. 

Do not lose your earplugs. If you do lose your earplugs, 

notify your Drill Sergeant immediately. 

Wear your earplugs to protect your hearing, for you will be 

glad you did.

Protect against the Effects of Heat and Cold

Protect Against the Effects of Heat, Cold, and Insects.

While you are in BCT and AIT you may be exposed to 

extremes of heat and cold and biting insects. To protect you 

from the effects of heat, cold, and insects your cadre will 

ensure that you have the following things:

 Safeguards against over-stress from heat, or overexposure to cold, especially in your first couple

weeks. 

 Water and other beverages, and nutritious meals. 

You will probably be drinking more water and 

beverages than you are used to drinking.
140 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

 Protective clothing and sunscreen, and insect 

repellent. Your uniform is factory-treated with a 

conventional insect repellent for clothing. 

 Instructions on what items of your uniform to wear, 

and how much water you should drink, on a given 

day.

 Reminders about symptoms and signs of hot and cold 

weather illnesses, to watch for in both yourself and 

your buddy.

 Questions about whether you have been ill, or are 

taking medication, that may increase your risk of heat 

and cold weather illness.

Note: In case of a severe hot weather illness, your cadre 

may remove the outer clothing and apply ice water-soaked 

sheets to the affected Soldier. 

Here are a few things to remember all the time:

 Eat all your meals and drink all the water and 

beverages provided to you. Food and fluids are 

needed to “fuel” your body’s regulating systems for 

both heat and cold.

 Make sure your uniform is clean, worn as instructed, 

and all buttons and fasteners are serviceable. Apply 

sunscreen and insect repellent to your face, neck, and 

hands as instructed.

 Let your cadre know if you aren’t feeling well, taking 

medications, and/or have unusual insect bite marks 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 141

that look infected. Also let your cadre know if you 

think your buddy is not feeling well. 

 Watch the amount and color of your urine as an 

indicator of whether you are drinking enough water 

and fluids. This is just as important in cold weather as 

it is in hot weather.

 When you are in AIT, if you purchase energy drinks, 

sports drinks, or supplements, ensure that you 

continue eating all meals and drink all the water and 

beverages provided to you. 

8-5. Ready and Resilient

Soldiers must cope with adversity, perform well in stressful 

situations, and learn to thrive in stressful environments. 

The ready and resilient Fitness program is designed to build 

resilience and enhance the performance of the Army Family 

Soldiers, their Families, and Army Civilians – through handson training and online self-development tools. 

Resilient individuals enhance Army performance and 

readiness. Resilience is the ability to grow and thrive in the 

face of challenges and bounce back from adversity. 

The goal of ready and resilient Family Fitness is to increase 

your resilience and enhance your performance by 

developing and strengthening five dimensions of strength. 
142 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

1. Social strength refers to developing and maintaining 

trusted, valued relationships and friendships that are 

personally fulfilling and foster good communication 

including a comfortable exchange of ideas, views, and 

experiences.

2. Emotional strength means approaching life’s 

challenges in a positive, optimistic way by 

demonstrating self-control, stamina, and good 

character with your choices and actions.

3. Family strength is about being a part of a Family unit 

that is safe, supportive and loving, and provides the 

resources needed for all members to live in a healthy 

and secure environment. 

4. Spiritual strength refers to one’s purpose, values, 

beliefs, identity, and life vision. These elements, which 

define the essence of a person, enable one to build 

inner strength, make meaning of experiences, behave 

ethically, persevere through challenges, and be 

resilient when faced with adversity. An individual’s 

spirituality draws upon personal, philosophical, 

psychological, and/or religious teachings, and forms 

the basis of their character. 

5.Physical strength is about performing and excelling in 

physical activities that require aerobic fitness, endurance, 

strength, healthy body composition, and flexibility derived 

through exercise, nutrition, and training. The physical 

dimension also encompasses the Office of the Surgeon 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 143

General (OTSG) Performance Triad initiative of sleep, 

activity, and nutrition to improve personal and unit 

performance, resilience, and readiness. 

8-6. Chaplains

The chaplain is responsible for providing spiritual support to 

every Soldier in the unit. Although chaplains are part of a 

particular denomination, their mission is to ensure the 

spiritual needs of every Soldier are met. Each battalion in 

the Army has its own Chaplain (normally a CPT). The 

chaplains and their assistants form the Unit’s Ministry Team. 

Chaplains hold weekly services (while in garrison and in the 

field), are available for individual counseling, and are one of 

the few members of the military who retain the privilege of 

confidentiality. The chaplain also plays a key role in helping 

promote programs, such as suicide prevention.

In the BCT/OSUT/AIT environment, they are of particular 

value in helping Soldiers succeed under difficult and 

stressful conditions. They assist the commander in 

teaching, displaying, instilling the Army Values, and in 

maintaining high morale within the unit.

8-7. Risk management

Every Soldier, regardless of rank, is faced with making 

decisions. You will be challenged to make smart decisions 

about risk, decisions that will affect not only yourself, but 

also your team, Family, and friends. 
144 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

The Army uses a system called Risk Management to help 

make those decisions. ATP 5-19, Risk Management is the 

Army’s doctrinal manual for risk management. 

The system doesn’t just apply in combat but to everything 

you do on or off duty. The whole goal is to preserve the 

Army's ability to fight and win by keeping you safe. The 

Army’s Risk Management is a logical approach to riskassociated decision making that will help you make smart 

risk decisions and reduce the possibility of becoming a loss.

As you progress throughout your career, you will learn more 

about the Risk Management process. For now, you need to 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 145

focus on a few items to ensure your safety while you are in 

Initial Entry Training: 

 Hot Weather Injury Awareness

 Cold Weather Injury Awareness

 Weapon Muzzle Awareness

 Environmental Hazards (insects, animals, poisonous 

plants, etc.)

 Follow all directions/orders at all times

Chapter 9 – Discipline

The Army is subject to military law and the laws of our 

government, and we strive to live as law-abiding Soldiers in 

whatever we do and wherever we go. 

Military discipline is founded upon self-discipline, respect for 

authority, and the embracing of the professional Army ethic 

with its supporting core values. 

Military discipline is developed through individual and group 

training to create a mental attitude that will result in proper 

conduct and prompt obedience to lawful military authority.

The Rules

There are three basic rules you should follow: 

 Follow Army regulations and the UCMJ. 

 Take responsibility for your actions.
146 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

 Set the example, do what is right even when no one is 

watching and always keep your hands to yourself. 

While military discipline is the result of effective training, it 

affects every aspect of military life. It is a characteristic 

found in individuals and units that demonstrate:

 Unit cohesion, bonding, and a spirit of teamwork. 

 Smartness of appearance and action. 

 Cleanliness and maintenance of dress, equipment, 

and quarters. 

 Respect to seniors and mutual respect between 

senior and subordinate personnel. 

 Prompt and willing execution of both the letter, and 

the spirit of the legal orders of their lawful 

commanders. 

 Fairness, justice, and equity for all Soldiers, 

regardless of age, race, ethnicity, religion, color, 

gender, or national origin. 

9-1. Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ)

The UCMJ is the statute that prescribes criminal law for 

Soldiers. It applies to active duty Soldiers 24 hours a day 

and 7 days a week. Anywhere you are in the world, the 

UCMJ applies. 

All persons in the military service are required to strictly 

obey and promptly execute the legal orders of their lawful 

seniors. 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 147

The UCMJ authorizes non-judicial punishment 

(administrative actions) by commanders and judicial 

punishment by court-martial (military courts).

The UCMJ covers traditional offenses that can occur inside 

or outside of the military environment. Examples include 

assault, burglary, rape, and murder. 

It also provides for the punishment of strictly military 

offenses. Military offenses are those not common in civilian 

law. Examples include failure to repair, absence without 

leave, disrespect to NCOs and commissioned officers, and 

disobedience of orders. 

The principle that an accused is innocent until proven guilty 

applies to both non-judicial punishment and courts-martial. 

You have the right to be informed of any charges against 

you, as well as the names of accusers and known 

witnesses. 

UCMJ: Non-Judicial Punishment

Under the provisions of the UCMJ, Article 15, commanding 

officers may impose non-judicial punishment upon Soldiers 

who commit minor offenses within their units. 

The purpose of non-judicial punishment is to train, correct, 

and reform. It also promotes positive behavior changes in 

Soldiers without the stigma of a courts-martial conviction. 
148 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

While Article 15s are often considered “minor,” common 

punishments include: revocation of pay, revocation of time 

(through extra duty) and revocation of rank. 

Some of the common UCMJ offenses in IET are:

Refusing to train; disobey a lawful order; disrespect to an 

officer/noncommissioned officer; sexual harassment/assault, 

and missing formation.

UCMJ: Court-Martial

There are three types of court-martial: summary, special, 

and general. 

Trials by court-martial are the military equivalent of civilian

trials by judges and juries. The differences among the three 

are based on their composition, level of authority, and 

severity of punishments authorized. 

A summary court-martial is composed of a commissioned 

officer on active duty with the grade of captain or above. 

The purpose of the summary court-martial is to make 

thorough and impartial inquiries into minor offenses and to 

make sure that justice is done, with the interests of both the 

government and the accused being safeguarded. 

A special court-martial consists of a military judge and not 

less than three panel members when required. It is held for 

relatively serious offenses. 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 149

A general court-martial consists of a military judge and not 

less than five panel members when required. It is held for 

serious offenses. 

A general court-martial may impose any authorized 

punishment including the death penalty in certain cases. 

9-2. Equal opportunity policy

The Equal Opportunity (EO) program ensures an Armywide, concentrated effort to maximize human potential and 

to ensure fair treatment for all persons based solely on 

merit, fitness, and capability in support of readiness. 

The EO philosophy is based on fairness, justice, and equity. 

The Army’s EO program emphasizes fair and equal 

treatment for military personnel, and civilian employees 

without regard to race, color, religion, gender, or national 

origin. This policy applies on and off post, extends to 

Soldiers, civilian employees, and Family members, and 

includes working, living, and recreational environments.

Complaint process

The EO complaints processing system addresses 

grievances that allege unlawful discrimination or unfair 

treatment on the basis of race, national origin, color, gender, 

religious affiliation, or sexual harassment. 

Attempts should always be made to solve the problem at the 

lowest possible level within an organization.
150 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

If a complaint is submitted, it will be investigated. Those 

personnel found in violation of the EO Policy are subject to 

punishment under the UCMJ. 

Within reason, Soldiers and other individuals are 

encouraged to attempt resolution of any complaints by 

confronting an alleged offender, or by informing other 

appropriate officials about the offensive behavior or unfair 

treatment. 

Also, individuals are responsible to advise their chain of 

command on the specifics of any discrimination or sexual 

harassment so appropriate action can be taken. 

Personnel must submit only legitimate complaints, and 

should exercise caution against frivolous or reckless 

allegations. 

Types of EO complaints

The Army has two types of EO complaints within its EO 

complaint process: informal, and formal. 

An informal complaint is any complaint that a Soldier, Family 

member or DA civilian does not wish to file in writing. 

Informal complaints may be resolved by the complainant 

directly with the assistance of another unit member, the 

commander, or another person in the complainant's chain of 

command. 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 151

Typically, those issues that may be taken care of informally 

can be resolved through discussion, problem identification, 

and clarification of the issues. An informal complaint is not 

subject to time suspense, nor is it reportable. 

A formal complaint is one that a Soldier, Family member, or 

DA civilian files in writing and swears to the accuracy of the 

information. DA Form 7279-R, Equal Opportunity Complaint 

Form can be obtained at the unit or higher headquarters 

level. 

Formal complaints require specific actions, are subject to 

timelines, and require documentation of actions taken.

Alternative measures

Although handling EO complaints through the chain of 

command is strongly encouraged, this is not the only 

channel. Should a Soldier feel uncomfortable in filing a 

complaint with the chain of command, or should the 

complaint be against a member of the chain of command, 

there are a number of alternative agencies through which a 

complaint can be made. 

The following agencies are frequently used:

 Equal Opportunity Adviser (EOA) 

 Chaplain 

 Provost Marshal 

 Staff Judge Advocate 

 Housing Referral Office 
152 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

 Inspector General 

 EO Hotline 

Right to Appeal

If a complainant perceives an investigation failed to reveal 

all relevant facts, or if actions taken on their behalf are 

perceived as insufficient, he or she has the right to appeal to 

the next higher commander. 

The complainant may not appeal the action taken against 

the perpetrator, if any is taken. 

9-3. Policy on relationships between Soldiers

The Army has historically relied upon customs and traditions 

to define the bounds of acceptable personal relationships 

among its members. Soldier relationships have always 

been judged with reference to customs and traditions of the 

service. 

It is difficult to predict which relationships (strong 

friendships, parent-child, sibling, career, and business) can

create or appear to create an adverse impact on discipline, 

authority, morale or mission. Therefore, the Army prohibits 

all unprofessional relationships that compromise the chain of 

command, cause partiality or unfairness, involve the 

improper use of grade for personal gain, or are perceived to 

be exploitive or coercive in nature. 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 153

Relationships that may create or appear to create an 

adverse impact on discipline, authority, morale, or mission 

accomplishment are also prohibited. 

Professional Relationships: Professional relationships are 

interactions consistent with the Army Values. 

Professional relationships are those that contribute to the 

effective operation of the Army. 

Unprofessional Relationship: Unprofessional relationships 

occur when they detract from the authority of superiors or 

result in or create the appearance of: favoritism, misuse of 

office or position, or the abandonment of organizational 

goals for personal interests. 

Unprofessional relationships negatively affect our ability to 

carry out our mission. History shows unprofessional 

relationships erode morale, respect for authority, unit 

cohesion, and mission accomplishment. 

Due to the damage to that might occur, maintaining an 

unprofessional relationship is specifically prohibited and 

could result in disciplinary action. 

Fraternization 

The Army’s fraternization policy prohibits personal 

relationships between officer and enlisted personnel 

regardless of their service. This policy applies to differentgender relationships and same-gender relationships. 
154 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Violations of the fraternization and improper relationships 

policy may be punished under Article 92 and/or 134, UCMJ, 

as a violation of a lawful general regulation. 

Categories of personal relationships may include: 

 Dating

 Shared living accommodations 

 Engaging in intimate or sexual relations 

 Business enterprises 

 Commercial solicitations 

 Gambling or borrowing

 Writing personal letters

 Text messages

 Emails (Unrelated to the training mission)

 Personal telephone conversations (Unrelated to the 

training mission)

 Friending through Social media sites 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 155

Improper relationships

There are two major categories of illegal associations: 

relationships between permanent party members and 

BCT/OSUT/AIT Soldiers (Cadre-Trainee) and relationships 

between BCT/OSUT/AIT Soldiers (Trainee-Trainee). 

Any relationship between permanent party personnel 

and Trainee Soldiers not required by the training 

mission is prohibited.

There are no consensual relationships between CadreTrainee or between Trainee-Trainee during 

BCT/OSUT/AIT.

Trainers will sign a form with explicit and strict command 

guidance that acknowledges their understanding and 

responsibilities regarding the policies prohibiting 

inappropriate behaviors and relations outlined in DOD 

instructions. 

This form will be retained in the trainer’s record while they 

are assigned to the training duty and will be revalidated 

annually. 

This includes, but is not limited to, the following: 

 Drinking, dancing, or gambling. 

 Writing and/or receiving personal letters or emails. 

 Riding in permanent party privately owned vehicles.
156 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

 Having sexual conversations, contact (kissing, 

hugging, caressing, fondling, handholding, etc.), or 

intercourse. 

 Sending and/or receiving text messages or phone 

calls.

 Personal telephone conversations (Unrelated to the 

training mission)

 Friending through Social media sites 

IET Soldiers are prohibited from having any relationship with 

permanent party personnel without regard to the installation 

assignment of the permanent party member or the trainee. 

For example, personnel assigned or attached to the U.S. 

Army Recruiting Command may not have any relationship 

with potential prospects, applicants, and members of the 

Delayed Entry Program or Delayed Training Program, not 

required by the recruiting mission. 

After receiving the training on the policies stated in the DOD 

instructions all Soldiers will sign a form with explicit and 

strict command guidance acknowledging their 

understanding and responsibilities as outlined in the 

instructions. 

This form will be retained in the Soldier’s file until they 

detach from the training command or school to which they 

are assigned or attached. 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 157

Unlawful associations between Trainee Soldiers involve any 

actual or attempted consensual contact or socializing 

between or among Soldiers who are BCT/OSUT/AIT. 

Soldiers will therefore avoid the following associations and 

acts: 

 Consensual contact or socializing (between or among 

Soldiers who are in BCT, OSUT or AIT) which 

involves handholding, embracing, caressing, kissing, 

touching, massaging or fondling of a sexual nature, 

engaging in sexual intercourse, or sodomy. 

 Use of sexually explicit, suggestive, or obscene 

language or gestures directed towards, or with 

respect to another Soldier in BCT, OSUT or AIT. 

 Gender-based or race-based harassment or 

disparaging language or actions (by a Soldier or a 

group of Soldiers in BCT, OSUT or AIT) directed 

towards another Soldier or group of Soldiers in BCT, 

OSUT or AIT. 

 Entry into the living quarters, latrines, or other areas 

designated for the exclusive use of Soldiers of the 

opposite sex, unless required by training mission/ 

official duties or for health or safety emergencies. 

However, language or socializing of a non-sexual, nonharassing nature between BCT, OSUT and AIT Soldiers is 

not illegal if the interaction is based on the esprit and 

enthusiasm generated by the basic training mission and the 
158 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

professional development associated with BCT, OSUT, and 

AIT.

Finally, there is no prohibition against Trainee Soldiers of 

the same or opposite sex talking to one another or 

developing friendships. 

9-4. SHARP

A Soldier in the United States Army stands strong - a 

member of a band of brothers and sisters bound together by 

timeless values and sharing a sense of trust with and duty 

and loyalty to their fellow Soldiers that is unlike any other in 

the world.

Their willingness to sacrifice for each other, to never leave a 

fallen comrade, is what makes a Soldier strong - on the 

battlefield, and off.

When sexual harassment or sexual assault occurs, it is not 

only a direct violation of our Army Values and Warrior Ethos, 

but also an assault 

on what it means to 

serve in the

Profession of Arms 

and the Army way 

of life - a life in 

which it is our duty 

to protect and take 

care of each other 

no matter the time, place, or circumstance. As a band of 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 159

brothers and sisters, we have a personal and professional 

duty to intervene and prevent sexual harassment and sexual 

assault.

Sexual assault is a crime. It betrays victims and their 

Families; erodes the bedrock of trust upon which the 

Profession of Arms is grounded; and has a corrosive effect 

on our unit readiness, team cohesion, and command 

environment.

The damage resulting from sexual assault extends far 

beyond the victim, weakening the very health and morale of 

our Soldiers, breaking the bond of trust within our team, 

shattering the confidence Soldiers have in one another, and 

undermining unit readiness. Sexual assault can be 

prevented. As Soldiers, our Army Values demand that we 

act to stop these behaviors. There are no passive 

bystanders. Passive bystanders who do not assist, do not 

report, and do not try to help their fellow Soldiers as they 

see sexual harassment or sexual assaults occur are part of 

the problem. We must protect our team members. When we 

see or sense the risk of sexual harassment or sexual 

assault, we have a duty to intervene and protect our fellow

Soldiers
160 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

At the Reception 

Battalion and during 

the initial phase of 

BCT and OSUT, 

Army leaders will 

provide you with 

information designed 

to inform, protect, 

and prevent you from 

becoming a victim of sexual harassment and assault, and if 

you do become a victim, provide you with options for 

reporting the incident and getting help.

WHAT IS “I. A.M. STRONG”?

Intervene, Act, and Motivate (I. A.M.) STRONG is the 

Army's campaign to combat sexual harassment and sexual 

assault by engaging all Soldiers in preventing sexual assault 

before they occur.

INTERVENE When I recognize a threat to my fellow 

Soldiers, I will have the personal courage to INTERVENE 

and prevent sexual assault. I will condemn acts of sexual 

harassment. I will not abide obscene gestures, language, or 

behavior. I am a Warrior and a member of a team. I will 

INTERVENE.

ACT You are my brother, my sister, my fellow Soldier. It is 

my duty to stand up for you, no matter the time or place. I 

will take ACTION. I will do what’s right. I will prevent sexual 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 161

harassment and sexual assault. I will not tolerate sexually 

offensive behavior. I will ACT.

MOTIVATE We are American Soldiers, MOTIVATED to 

keep our fellow Soldiers safe. It is our mission to prevent 

sexual harassment and sexual assault. We will denounce 

sexual misconduct. As Soldiers, we are all

MOTIVATED to take action. We are strongest...together

Sexual Harassment: Sexual harassment is a form of sex 

discrimination that involves unwelcome sexual advances, 

requests for sexual favors, and other verbal, or physical 

conduct of a sexual nature. The following conditions are 

signs of sexual harassment.

 Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly 

or implicitly a term or condition of a person’s job, 

pay, or career, or

 Submission to, or rejection of, such conduct by a 

person is used as a basis for career or employment 

decisions affecting that person, or

 Such conduct has the purpose or effect of 

unreasonably interfering with an individual’s work 

performance or creates an intimidating, hostile, or 

offensive working environment.

Note: “Workplace” is an expansive term for Soldiers and 

may include conduct on or off duty, 24 hours a day, on or off 

post.
162 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Examples of Sexual Harassment:

Verbal:

 Making sexual jokes, gestures, remarks, or 

innuendos.

 Making comments about an individual’s 

appearance, body, clothing, or sexual behavior.

 Spreading sexual rumors about an individual.

 Persistent, unwanted requests for social (dates) or 

sexual activity.

 Participating in sexually charged conversations.

 Nonverbal:

 Making and/or posting inappropriate sexual remarks 

to, or photos of, an Individual via social media sites, 

text message, or email.

 Displaying pornographic material or sexual photos in 

the workplace.

 Making a sexually offensive expression.

 Conduct of a sexual nature intended to embarrass, 

intimidate, demean, or degrade.

Physical Contact:

 Unwanted touching.
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 163

 Intimidation (blocking or cornering someone in a 

sexual way).

The Right response:

To determine if conduct falls under the category of sexual 

harassment, consider the following questions:

 Is the behavior sexual in nature?

 Is the behavior unwelcome?

 Does the behavior create a hostile or offensive work 

environment?

 Have sexual favors been demanded, requested, or 

suggested (especially as a condition of employment 

or career and job success)?

 Your options:

 Suggested individual actions to deal with sexual 

harassment include:

 Direct approach

 Indirect approach

 Third Party.

 Report harassment to the Chain of Command.

 File a formal Complaint.
164 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

 If you are uncomfortable because of certain sexual 

remarks or behaviors, you should be assertive. In 

responding to behavior that is or may become 

sexual harassment, you should tell the person how 

you feel.

 Describe what you do not like. Stay focused on the 

behavior and its impact. Clearly state what you want 

in the future. Tell any potential offender, “I do not 

want to hear that again” or, “Do not touch me again.”

 If harassment continues after you have warned the 

harasser of their words and actions, go to your 

immediate superior unless that is the person doing 

the harassing.

In that case, go to their superior. If appropriate action is

not taken, you may want to go up the chain of command to

an Equal Opportunity Advisor/Equal Opportunity

Representative or SHARP representatives such as the

SARC or Victim Advocate (VA).

You can always tell a chaplain and ask for help.

Sexual Assault is an act intended to abuse, humiliate,

harass, or degrade any person or to arouse or gratify the

sexual desire of any person characterized by the use of

force, threats, intimidation, or abuse of authority or when

the victim does not or cannot consent.

The term includes a broad category of sexual offenses

consisting of the following specific UCMJ offenses: rape,
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 165

sexual assault, aggravated sexual contact, abusive

sexual contact, forcible sodomy (forced oral or anal sex),

or attempts to commit these offenses.

Sexual assault is a crime!

Examples of Sexual Assault may include:

 Rape and nonconsensual sodomy.

 Performing sexual acts or sexual contact with an

individual who cannot give consent because he or she is

sleeping/passed out or too impaired to consent due to

alcohol or drugs and the condition is known or

reasonably should have been known by the alleged

offender. Using physical threats or force in order to

engage in sexual contact with an individual.

 Performing sexual acts or sexual contact with an

individual who has expressed lack of consent through

words (e.g. said “no” or “stop”) or through conduct.

 Sexual contact without permission, which can

include fondling and hazing incidents.

Zero tolerance policy

The Army’s policy states that sexual assault is a criminal 

offense incompatible with the Army’s high standards of 

professionalism, discipline, and Army Values.

Commanders and supervisors of perpetrators will take 

appropriate disciplinary action and/or administrative action.
166 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Male and female Soldiers can commit rape.

The types of rape include physical and indirect force, 

date/acquaintance rape, and marital rape.

Your responsibility as a Soldier is to treat your fellow 

Soldiers the same as you would treat your buddy, or how 

you would prefer to be treated. This means if you see a 

Soldier in danger or trouble, you must take action.

What to do if you have been sexually assaulted

If you have been sexually assaulted or think you have

been, go to a safe location away from the perpetrator.

If you want to talk with someone or want assistance, you

have individuals who are ready to help. Make sure you

understand the difference between a restricted and

unrestricted report so that those you reach out to will

understand your needs and can best assist you.

Restricted Report: Sexual assault victims who want to

confidentially disclose a sexual assault without triggering

an official investigation can contact a SARC/SHARP

Specialist/VA, or a healthcare provider.

By filing a restricted report with these personnel, a victim

can disclose the sexual assault without triggering an

official investigation AND receive medical treatment,

advocacy services, legal assistance, and counseling.

You can speak to a Chaplain and also maintain a

restricted report. While a Chaplain cannot take a

restricted report, Chaplains may not disclose privileged

communication revealed in the practice of their ministry
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 167

without the individual's informed consent. The Chaplain

will report incidents of sexual assault to the SARC only

with the victim’s consent.

Unrestricted Report: This option is for victims of

sexual assault who desire medical treatment,

counseling, legal assistance, SARC/SHARP Specialist

and VA assistance

and an official investigation of the crime.

When selecting unrestricted reporting, you may report the 

incident to the SARC/SHARP Specialist or VA, request 

healthcare providers to notify law enforcement, contact law 

enforcement yourself, or use current reporting channels, 

e.g., chain of command.

You can also call the DoD safe helpline at 877-995-5247 or 

your local installation helpline for further assistance.

Sex Rules

The Army has the following rules as both an awareness and 

reminder tool to keep you and your fellow Soldiers out of 

harm's way.

Rule No. 1: Sexual assault is a crime. Those in the Army 

found guilty of sexual assault could face a dishonorable 

discharge and up to 30 years in prison. Integrity. Do what’s 

right, legally and morally.

Rule No. 2: No always means no. Unless the individual 

says yes, the answer is always no. Loyalty. Remain true to 

your fellow Soldiers.
168 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Rule No. 3: Without consent, it’s sexual assault. Never 

assume you have consent. Ask. Honor. Live up to the Army 

Values with every choice you make.

Rule No. 4: Unwanted physical contact is wrong.

Unwanted or inappropriate touching, patting, tickling, 

pinching, bumping, hugging, grabbing, rubbing, etc. can 

be considered sexual assault. It’s simple really. Keep your

hands off! Respect. Treat others with dignity and respect.

Rule No. 5: Sexually offensive remarks are sexual

harassment. Verbal sexual harassment includes telling

sexual jokes, whistling in a sexually suggestive manner,

and describing certain attributes of one’s physical

appearance in a sexual manner. Duty. Act in the best

interest of your unit.

Rule No. 6: Silence doesn’t mean consent. Respect.

Clarify; ask before acting.

Rule No. 7: Assess, discern and mitigate risk.

Recognizing the warning signs of a potential sexual

assault can help assure that it never happens. Selfless

Service. Ensure your Battle Buddy’s safety.

Rule No. 8: Set the Standard of Conduct. Now that

you’re a Soldier, you are held to a higher standard of

conduct. Duty. Be and hold others accountable.

Rule No. 9: Stop sexual hazing, bullying and assault.

All acts of sexual harassment or assault break the bond of

trust between battle buddies and weakens the unit.
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 169

Integrity. You are a Soldier, lead by example and stand

up for what is right.

Rule No. 10: Be a leader; not a passive bystander. If

you’re ever in a situation where you witness someone

sexually harassed or assaulted, it is your obligation to

have the Personal Courage to intervene. Personal

Courage. Intervene, Act and Motivate.
170 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

9-5. The Army Ethic

The Army Ethic, The Heart of the Army

The Army Ethic includes the moral principles that guide 

our decisions and actions as we fulfill our purpose to 

support and defend the Constitution and our way of life.

Living the Army Ethic is the basis for our mutual trust 

with each other and the American people. Today our 

ethic is expressed in laws, values, and shared beliefs 

within American and Army cultures. The Army Ethic 

motivates our commitment as Soldiers and Army 

Civilians who are bound together to accomplish the 

Army mission as expressed in our historic and prophetic 

motto: This We’ll Defend.

Living the Army Ethic inspires our shared identity as 

trusted Army professionals with distinctive roles as 

honorable servants, Army experts, and stewards of the 

profession. To honor these obligations we adopt, live by, 

and uphold the moral principles of the Army Ethic. 

Beginning with our solemn oath of service as defenders 

of the Nation, we voluntarily incur the extraordinary 

moral obligation to be trusted Army professionals.

Trusted Army professionals are
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 171

Honorable Servants of the Nation—Professionals of 

Character:

We serve honorably—according to the Army Ethic—

under civilian authority while obeying the laws of the 

Nation and all legal orders; further, we reject and report 

illegal, unethical, or immoral orders or actions.

We take pride in honorably serving the Nation with 

integrity, demonstrating character in all aspects of our 

lives.

In war and peace, we recognize the intrinsic dignity and 

worth of all people, treating them with respect.

We lead by example and demonstrate courage by doing 

what is right despite risk, uncertainty, and fear; we 

candidly express our professional judgment to

subordinates, peers, and superiors.

Army Experts—Competent Professionals:

We do our duty, leading and following with discipline, 

striving for excellence, putting the needs of others above 

our own, and accomplishing the mission as a team.
172 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

We accomplish the mission and understand it may 

demand courageously risking our lives and justly taking 

the lives of others.

We continuously advance the expertise of our chosen 

profession through life-long learning, professional 

development, and our certifications.

Stewards of the Army Profession—Committed 

Professionals:

We embrace and uphold the Army Values and standards 

of the profession, always accountable to each other and 

the American people for our decisions and actions.

We wisely use the resources entrusted to us, ensuring 

our Army is well led and well prepared, while caring for 

Soldiers, Army Civilians, and Families.

We continuously strengthen the essential characteristics 

of the Army Profession, reinforcing our bond of trust with 

each other and the American people.

Army Values within the Moral Principles of the Army 

Ethic

Integrity: “Do what is right* legally and morally.” 

Decisions & actions are consistent with the moral 

principles of the Army Ethic.
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 173

We take pride in honorably serving the Nation with 

integrity, demonstrating character in all aspects of our 

lives.

We embrace and uphold the Army Values and standards 

of the profession, always accountable to each other and 

the American people for our decisions and actions.

Duty: “Fulfill your obligations. Accept responsibility for 

your own actions and those entrusted to your care.” 

Contribute your best effort to accomplish the 

mission; do what is right* to the best of your ability; 

strive for excellence in all endeavors.

We do our duty, leading and following with discipline, 

striving for excellence, putting the needs of others above 

our own, and accomplishing the mission as a team.

We continuously advance the expertise of our chosen 

profession through life-long learning, professional 

development, and our certifications.

Honor: “Live up to all the Army Values.” Show 

reverence for truth and justice, have due regard for 

property, and commit to uphold the Army Ethic.

Seek to discover the truth, decide what is right (ethical, 

effective, and efficient), and demonstrate the character, 

competence, and commitment to act accordingly.

[Expectations for Army Professionals - ADRP 1, para 2-

29]
174 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Loyalty: “Bear true faith and allegiance to the U.S. 

Constitution, the Army, your unit, and other Soldiers.” 

Bear true faith and allegiance to the U.S. 

Constitution.

We serve honorably—according to the Army Ethic—

under civilian authority while obeying the laws of the 

Nation and all legal orders; further, we reject and report 

illegal, unethical, or immoral orders or actions.

[Selfless] Service: “Put the welfare of the nation, the 

Army, and your subordinates before your own.” 

Contribute to the well-being and benefit of others; 

teamwork.

We continuously strengthen the essential characteristics 

of the Army Profession, reinforcing our bond of trust with 

each other and the American people.

We wisely use the resources entrusted to us, ensuring 

our Army is well led and well prepared, while caring for 

Soldiers, Army Civilians, and Families.

Respect: “Treat people as they should be treated.” 

Recognize the intrinsic dignity and worth of all 

people.

In war and peace, we recognize the intrinsic dignity and 

worth of all people, treating them with respect.
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 175

[Personal] Courage: “Our ability to face fear, danger, or 

adversity, both physical and moral courage.” Resolve to 

do what is right (duty) despite risk, uncertainty, and 

fear. 

We accomplish the mission and understand it may 

demand courageously risking our lives and justly taking 

the lives of others. We lead by example and 

demonstrate courage by doing what is right despite risk, 

uncertainty, and fear; we candidly express our 

professional judgment to subordinates, peers, and 

superiors.

* right = ethical, effective, and efficient. 

9-6. Standards and Principles of Ethical Conduct

You are now part of a culture that lives up to a higher 

standard. As a Soldier, you are also a member of the 

Executive Branch of the U.S. government. Your actions 

must uphold the letter and the spirit of US laws and 

regulations governing ethical conduct. The President has 

issued Executive Order 12731, known as the “14 

General Principles of Ethical Conduct” These principles 

summarize the ethics laws and regulations all Soldiers 

must follow:
176 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

(1) Public service is a public trust, requiring Soldiers to 

place loyalty to the Constitution, the laws and ethical 

principles above any private gain.

(2) Soldiers will not hold financial interests that would 

conflict with the conscientious performance of their duty.

(3) Soldiers will not engage in financial transactions 

using Government information that isn’t available to the 

general public, or allow the improper use of such 

information to further any private interest.

(4) All Soldiers will not, except as permitted by the 

Standards of Ethical Conduct, solicit or accept any gift or 

other item of monetary value from any person or entity 

seeking official action from, doing business with, or 

conducting activities regulated by the Army, or whose 

interests may be substantially affected by the 

performance or nonperformance of the Soldier’s duties.

(5) Soldiers will always put forth honest effort in the 

performance of their duties.

(6) Soldiers will not knowingly make unauthorized 

commitments or promises of any kind appearing to bind 

the Government.
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 177

(7) Soldiers will not use their public office for private 

gain.

(8) Soldiers will act impartially and not give preferential 

treatment to any private organization or individual.

(9) Soldiers will protect and conserve Federal property 

and will not use it for other than authorized activities.

(10)Soldiers will not engage in outside employment or 

activities, including seeking or negotiating for 

employment, that conflict with official Government duties 

and responsibilities.

(11)Soldiers will disclose waste, fraud, abuse, and 

corruption to appropriate authorities.

(12)Soldiers will satisfy in good faith their obligations as 

citizens, including all financial obligations, especially 

those -- such as Federal, State, or local taxes -- that are 

imposed by law.

(13)Soldiers will adhere to all laws and regulations that 

provide equal opportunity for all Americans regardless of 

race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, or 

handicap.
178 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

(14)Soldiers will avoid any actions creating the 

appearance that they are violating the law or the ethical 

standards set forth in the Standards of Ethical Conduct.

If you are ever confused as to what these requirements 

of ethical conduct mean, there are online and local 

resources to help make the right ethical decisions. One 

way to do that is to go to the Army’s Office of General 

Counsel website at: http://ogc.hqda.pentagon.mil/ and 

click “ethics” link. http://ogc.hqda.pentagon.mil/ and click 

“ethics” link. Your base legal office has an ethics 

counselor for advice, or TRADOC Ethics Counselor at 

(757) 501-5757 or 5659.

Chapter 10 – Reference Material

10-1. The National Anthem

Written by Francis Scott Key in 1814, the Star Spangled 

Banner was played at military occasions ordered by 

President Woodrow Wilson in 1916, and in 1931 was 

designated as our national anthem by an Act of 

Congress.

The Star Spangled Banner is the timeless rendition of 

our sacred American Flag and country’s patriotic spirit.
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 179

The Star Spangled Banner

Oh, say, can you see, by the dawn's early light,

What so proudly we hailed at the twilight's last 

gleaming?

Whose broad stripes and bright stars, thro' the perilous 

fight'

O'er the ramparts we watched were so gallantly 

streaming.

And the rockets’ red glare, the bombs bursting in air,

Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there.

Oh, say, does that Star-Spangled Banner yet wave

O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave? 

10-2. The Army Song

The Army Song tells the heroic story of our past, present, 

and future. It was originally written by First Lieutenant 

Edmund L. Gruber, a Field Artillery officer, in 1908 and it 

was adopted in 1952 as the official song of our Army. As a 

time-honored tradition, the song is played at the conclusion 

of every U.S. Army ceremony in which all Soldiers are 

expected to stand and proudly sing the lyrics. 

Army Song

March along, sing our song, with the Army of the free.
180 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Count the brave, count the true, who have fought to 

victory.

We’re the Army and proud of our name!

We’re the Army and proudly proclaim. 

First to fight for the right, And to build the Nation’s might,

And The Army Goes Rolling Along.

Proud of all we have done, Fighting till the battle’s won,

And the Army Goes Rolling Along.

Then it’s Hi! Hi! Hey! The Army’s on its way.

Count off the cadence loud and strong.

For where e’er we go, you will always know,

That The Army Goes Rolling Along.

10-3. The Code of Conduct

I. I am an American, fighting in the forces which guard 

my country and our way of life. I am prepared to give 

my life in their defense. 

II. I will never surrender of my own free will. If in 

command, I will never surrender the members of my 

command while they still have the means to resist. 

III. If I am captured, I will continue to resist by all means 

available. I will make every effort to escape and aid 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 181

others to escape. I will accept neither parole nor 

special favors from the enemy. 

IV. If I become a prisoner of war, I will keep faith with my 

fellow prisoners. I will give no information or take 

part in any action, which might be harmful to my 

comrades. If I am senior, I will take command. If not, 

I will obey the lawful orders of those appointed over 

me and will back them up in every way. 

V. When questioned, should I become a prisoner of 

war, I am required to give name, rank, service 

number, and date of birth. I will evade answering 

further questions to the utmost of my ability. I will 

make no oral or written statements disloyal to my 

country and its allies or harmful to their cause. 

VI. I will never forget that I am an American, fighting for 

freedom, responsible for my actions, and dedicated 

to the principles which made my country free. I will 

trust in my God and in the United States of America.

The Code of Conduct is our guide for how all Soldiers, 

Sailors, Airmen and Marines must conduct themselves if 

captured by the enemy. The Code of Conduct, in six 

brief Articles, addresses the intense situations and 

decisions that, to some degree, all military service 

members could encounter. It contains the critical 

information for U.S. prisoners of war to survive 

honorably while faithfully resisting the enemy’s efforts of 

exploitation.
182 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

10-4. General Orders/Special Orders

General Orders:

1. I will guard everything within the limits of my post 

and quit my post only when properly relieved.

2. I will obey my special orders and perform all my 

duties in a military manner.

3. I will report violations of my special orders, 

emergencies, and anything not covered in my 

instructions to the commander of relief.

BCT / OSUT / AIT Special Orders: Additional 

requirements or instructions imbedded within the general 

orders.

1. I will not do anything that would injure, degrade or 

harm my teammates...for I am an American 

Soldier sworn to defend the Values that we hold 

dear as a nation. 

2. I will not go anywhere without my battle buddy, 

and will take action to protect him/her from harm, 

whether that harm is to them self or at the hands 

of others...for I am the first line of defense in the 

protection of my teammates.

3. I trust my comrades with my life, but if I observe 

any threats against my battle buddy or my 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 183

teammates, it is my personal responsibility to 

report that infraction to my leadership...for it is my 

duty as a Soldier to serve and protect others.

10-5. Guard duty

One of the most important duties you will perform in the 

Army is guard duty. In a combat zone or unit area, 

cautious guards can mean the difference between life 

and death. However, guards are important everywhere 

due to the terrorist threats that can occur anywhere. 

Knowing your General Orders and Initial Military Training

Special Orders, as mentioned earlier in this book, will 

have a major impact during Guard Duty.

Reacting to an Inspecting Officer

When you are on guard duty and approached by an 

inspecting officer, these steps are followed:

 Stop walking and assume the position of attention.

 When the inspecting officer approaches, render a 

proper hand salute. 

 When the salute is returned, execute order arms.

 Remain at attention. 

 The inspecting officer will command, “At ease.”
184 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

 The inspecting officer may ask questions 

pertaining to your general orders, special orders, 

and what has transpired at your post.

 When finished with the inspection, the inspecting 

officer will say, “Carry on.” 

 Assume the position of attention and render a 

proper hand salute, holding it until it is returned. 

 Resume walking your post.

Challenging unknown persons

The following steps are carried out when challenging 

unknown persons (night) and summoning the 

commander of the relief:

 Upon seeing or hearing an unknown person, come 

to port arms. 

 Issue the command "Halt.” (Person halts.) 

 Call out “Who is/goes there?” Unknown person 

identifies him/herself. 

 State “Advance to be recognized.” 

 Command “Halt,” when the person can be seen 

but not closer than 2 to 3 meters away. 

 Say “State your business.” Unknown person 

states reason for presence in guarded area.
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 185

 Require the unknown person to place their 

identification on the ground and move back six 

steps. 

 Check the identification while keeping the person 

under observation.

 If the identification (ID) and authorization do not

match, move to the phone and call the 

commander of the relief while keeping the person 

under observation.

 Release the person to the commander of the relief 

and explain that their identification and 

authorization do not match.

10-6. Army Organizations

Active Army and Reserve Component

The U.S. Army consists of the Active Army, the ARNG 

and the USAR. 

Army unit organizations

The squad/section is the smallest unit, consisting of 

eight to ten Soldiers. You will be assigned to a squad or 

a section when you report to your first unit.

The platoon includes the Platoon leader, Platoon 

Sergeant, and two or more squads. (Normally 4 squads)
186 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

The company includes the company commander, first 

sergeant, and two or more platoons. (Normally 3 to 4 

squads)

The battalion includes the battalion commander, his or 

her staff and headquarters, the command sergeant 

major, and approximately 3-5 companies.

The brigade consists of two to five battalions. It includes 

the brigade commander, command sergeant major, and 

a headquarters.

Chapter 11 – First Duty Station

11-1. Where Will I Serve?

Our Army has Soldiers and units in every State, 

Commonwealth and Possession across the United 

States. If you are in the active component, you may find 

yourself stationed in Alaska, Hawaii, Japan, Germany, 

Korea, Italy, and Turkey. Our presence is needed 

around the world to defend citizens, preserve liberties, 

and fight for freedom.

If your unit has been designated to deploy to perform 

regional missions, the unit will prepare you for that 

deployment. 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 187

11-2. How can I prepare?

The training you are receiving now is preparing you for 

the challenges you will meet in your first unit, as you join 

a new team, and establish a new group of “battle 

buddies.”

Your first assignment will be even more challenging and 

even more rewarding than your BCT / OSUT / AIT 

experience, but only if you prepare yourself mentally for 

the journey. Have confidence and trust in your unit 

leaders that they will provide you with the knowledge, 

training, and physical preparation for that next gate in 

your professional development. 

11-3. Promotions

Progressing through the enlisted Army ranks is a major 

accomplishment. In the performance of your military 

duties, opportunities for education and self-development

are available. This provides you with enhanced skills

and allows your leaders to assess your leadership 

potential. Opportunities for advancement are available 

for you if you are committed to pursuing these 

opportunities.

There are two ways to get promoted to Specialist:

One is automatic as long as you have no punitive 

actions with the following time in grade (TIG) [the 
188 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

amount of time you have served continuously on the 

rank/grade] and service (TIS) [the amount of time you 

have served in the Army]:

Promotion

Time in Service 

(TIS)

Time in 

Grade (TIG)

PVT - PV2 6 months N/A

PV2 - PFC 12 months 4 months

PFC - SPC 24 months 6 months

The other is to receive a waiver from the Commander. 

The numbers available are few and depend on the 

Army’s need for that specific rank. A waiver can be used 

to wave either TIS or TIG, but not both. The 

Commander will pick the best Soldiers per rank to 

receive the waivers allocated each month. With a

waiver, minimum promotion requirements are:

Promotion

Time in Service 

(TIS)

Time in 

Grade (TIG)

PVT - PV2 4 months N/A

PV2 - PFC 6 months 2 months

PFC - SPC 18 months 3 months
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 189

To get promoted to Sergeant, Specialists must meet the 

minimum TIS and TIG to be eligible and then must 

appear before a unit promotion board (battalion or 

higher) and be selected for promotion. 

Once the board selects you for promotion, then your 

promotion points are calculated. The Army assesses 

every month how many Sergeants they need in your 

MOS. If the points drop below your number, you will be 

selected for promotion. The number varies from month 

to month. 

Promotions points are earned through merits (awards 

and certificates), schooling (both Military and civilian 

education), and Soldier proficiency scores (APFT and 

Weapons Qualification). Minimum TIS and TIG 

requirements are:

Promotion 

SPC - SGT

Time in Service 

(TIS)

Time in 

Grade (TIG)

Primary 

Zone 35 months 7 months

Secondary 

Zone 17 months 5 months
190 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

To excel as an Army Professional, every Soldier should 

set goals. Determine what you want from this 

opportunity to serve and continue the journey that you 

have embarked. 

Depending on the MOS and length of your contract, it is 

possible to make Specialist or Sergeant during your first 

enlistment. Whether you leave the Army at the 

conclusion of your enlistment or continue serving, your 

accomplishments will define who you are and inspire you 

to excel in and out of the military. 

Examples of goal-setting during your first enlistment:

 Become proficient on every weapon system within 

your platoon

 Become licensed to drive every vehicle within your

company

 Strive to obtain high individual scores on weapons 

and physical training

 Volunteer to attend resident military schools and 

courses when they become available in your MOS

 Work on your civilian education with a goal to 

receive an associate or higher degree before the 

end of your enlistment

 Represent your unit and compete for Soldier of the 

month selection
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 191

You can learn more about promotions through your NCO 

support channel. You can track your career path 

through the Army Career Tracker at: 

https://actnow.army.mil/

11-4. Total Army Sponsorship Program (TASP) and 

Army Career Tracker (ACT)

Total Army Sponsorship Program (TASP) 

Information about the Total Army Sponsorship Program 

is available at https://actnow.army.mil. A Common 

Access Card (CAC) or DS LOGON is required to access 

ACT. Click on the Sponsorship Help menu item, then 

click on General Information, Active component, or 

Reserve TPU. To begin, log on to ACT and review your 

Assignment Instruction Message. Open and read the 

Welcome Letter in order to learn information about your 

new assignment and the Sponsor who will be guiding 

you through your transition to a new unit. Many steps 

must occur in order to ensure a smooth transition for a 

PCSing individual, or Incoming Soldier, to his or her new 

unit or location. It is your responsibility to complete 

sections 1, 2, 4, and 5 of DA Form 5434. In Section 1, 

make sure that your information is correct, and then 

confirm that you have been counseled on the Total Army 

Sponsorship Program by clicking the checkbox. In 

Section 2, fill out your personal contact information and 
192 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Family details. In Section 4, complete the information 

about your losing unit. In Section 5, fill out any additional 

Family considerations that must be taken into account 

during your transition to a new unit. When you are done, 

click SAVE.

You are linked to a Sponsor through ACT and will 

receive a welcome message from him or her. You then 

receive information about your Sponsor as well as a 

prompt to begin completing DA Form 5434. Your

Sponsor and Sponsorship Coordinators are notified if the 

form is not completed. To view the completed DA Form 

5434, navigate to the Sponsorship primary navigation 

option, and choose COORDINATOR DASHBOARD from 

the secondary navigation drop down. Click on the DA 

FORM 5434 THERMOMETER DETAIL view, and 

choose your name to view your form. You will receive a 

notification in your Messages icon if your Sponsor is 

changed or removed for any reason. Additionally, all 

PCSing Soldiers are required to complete both inprocessing and out-processing surveys for their gaining 

and losing units, respectively. Underneath the 

Sponsorship option in the primary navigation column, 

choose SURVEYS from the secondary navigation drop 

down. Complete the survey and submit.

Army Career Tracker:
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 193

 (ACT) is a leadership development tool that integrates 

training and education into one personalized, easy-touse website. Users can search multiple education and 

training resources, monitor their career development and 

receive personalized advice from their leadership. 

Soldiers are encouraged to access ACT at least monthly 

to communicate with their leaders, supervisors, and 

mentors about career development goals; to and obtain 

the latest news and information tailored to their career 

program and individual needs. Users are also expected 

to use ACT to create and track their personal and 

professional career development goals. Users can 

search multiple education and training resources, 

monitor their career development and receive 

personalized advice from their leaders.

The system allows supervisors and mentors to monitor 

their employees' goals and provide them developmental 

recommendations, notifications and career advice. 

Supervisors will be able to view records for both their 

Civilian and military employees
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11-5. Soldier for Life Program

The U.S. Army established Soldier for Life in July 2012 

to maintain trust with our Army Family during and after 

service. This program is designed to enable Soldiers, 

Retired Soldiers, Veterans, and Families to leave military 

service “Career Ready”, and connect to an established 

network to find employment, education, and health 

resources. It focuses on the current serving population 

to instill the Soldier for Life mindset of service. 

Soldier for Life- Transition Assistance Program promotes 

lifelong learning, individual development, and transitionrelated requirements throughout a Soldier’s military 

Career. This program combines employment and 

education workshops and seminars tailored to prepare 

and connect transitioning Soldiers to meaningful civilian 

employment and education opportunities. 

Soldier for Life Centers- Centers are located on 

installations, Posts, camps and stations where Soldiers 

and Families can find resources to assist them in making 

educated decisions and sound plans during all phases of 

their military lives: in-service, and post transition. 

The Soldier’s for Life goal is to “Start Strong, Serve 

Strong, and Continue Strong”

Once a Soldier, Always a Soldier.....a Soldier for Life!
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 195

Appendix A – Army Resources

A-1. Leave and Earnings Statement
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The leave and earning statement (LES) is your detailed 

pay statement, which is issued at the end of each month. 

It shows your entitlements, deductions, and allotments, 

and it provides a summary of all pay transactions. It also 

shows your end-of-month pay and where your pay is 

being deposited. It is your duty to review the LES and 

ensure the information is correct. If you find an error, 

report it to your chain of command immediately. 

1. ID/Administration. The first section is the 

ID/Administration section. It shows your name, social 

security number (SSN), pay grade, pay date, years of 

service, ETS date, your branch of service, the code 

number of your servicing finance office, and the period 

covered by the LES. 

2. Entitlements. The second section is the entitlements 

section and lists all of your pay and allowances. Some 

common entries in this section include:

 Base Pay: Soldiers base pay is taxable and is 

calculated according to pay grade and years of 

service.

 Allowances: Soldiers are entitled to non-taxable 

allowances in addition to monthly base pay. 

 Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS). BAS is 

tax-free money the Army pays Soldiers who are 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 197

not relying on Dining Facilities (DFACs) for all their 

meals (i.e., married Soldiers). 

 Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) is tax-free 

money the Army pays Soldiers for housing. 

 Clothing Allowance (CA). Active duty enlisted 

Soldiers are paid a tax free Clothing Allowance to 

defray the cost of maintaining uniforms and 

replacing worn-out uniforms. 

3. Deductions. There may be several deductions taken 

out of Soldier’s pay, such as taxes and fines. 

4. Allotments. There are various types of allotments and 

limits as to the number of allotments Soldiers may have 

at one time. 

5. Summary. Provides the dollar totals of various 

sections and of your LES. 

6. Leave. Shows a running balance and a history of 

your leave account.

7. Federal Tax Section. Federal taxes are figured on 

your pay.

8. FICA Section. Federal Insurance Contributions Act 

(FICA) taxes are figured on your taxable pay. FICA data 

is shown in the first five blocks. 

9. State Tax. (Similar to Federal tax block)
198 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

10. Pay Data. DFAS uses the "PAY DATA" section for 

information about entitlements that relate to your pay 

account. 

11. Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). This section shows 

information pertaining to your Thrift Savings Plan. The 

TSP is a program available to you, which invests a 

portion of your pay into a variety of available funds

12. Remarks. This section shows your entitlements and 

deductions so far this calendar year. Other than that, the 

"REMARKS" section explains entries in the other 

sections, as well as other useful information. 

A-2. Managing personal finances

It is your duty as a Soldier to fulfill all of your financial 

obligations and provide for your Family members. There 

are several key components to achieving this task. Take 

action to ensure you are receiving your paycheck and 

have financial systems in place to meet your needs. 

Inquire with other individuals about the services they 

receive and make educated financial decisions.

MyPay: Soldiers can review and print their leave and 

earnings statement, thrift savings plan investments, 

savings deposit program Statement, allotments, savings 

bonds purchases, and direct deposit amounts at 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 199

https://mypay.dfas.mil/mypay.aspx.Ensure you visit the 

official military web site only.

Sure-Pay program: The Army requires all Soldiers to 

enroll in the sure-pay program. This means that you 

must have your paycheck deposited directly to a 

checking or savings account. If you close or change this 

account, you must ensure that you go to MyPay and 

update account information.

The Army will pay you once per month on the first of 

each month, or twice per month on the 1st and the 15th -

your choice based on your budget requirements.

You must carefully review your monthly leave and 

earning statement to ensure that your pay is being 

deposited properly and you are receiving all of the 

benefits (Base Pay, Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH), 

etc.) that you are entitled. 

Bank deposit account: There are some key items to 

consider when choosing the financial institution at which 

you will keep your direct deposit account. 

First, inquire if there is a monthly service charge for 

maintaining a checking account. Numerous institutions 

offer free checking, as long as you have set up SurePay. 
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Inquire if there a charge for using ATMs. Cash 

withdrawal charges can be expensive, and often banks 

do not charge ATM fees at local branches, or refund 

fees from other banks. 

Third, as the Army requires frequent moves, it is 

important to consider a bank that provides service at 

numerous military installations or online where you could 

be stationed. 

Service Members Civil Relief Act (SCRA): The SCRA 

offers many benefits and protections to Soldiers and 

their Families. It allows a service member to postpone 

or suspend certain civil actions while mobilized or 

deployed for active duty, including evictions, mortgage 

foreclosures, bankruptcies and other civil lawsuits. It 

covers all military service members from the date they 

enter active duty through 30 to 90 days after active duty 

discharge. The SCRA also offers protection against high 

interest rate debt secured prior to entry into Active Duty; 

capping interest rates on qualifying debt at 6%. Ensure 

you call all debtors (credit cards, car loans, personal 

loans, etc.) as soon as possible and notify them of your 

service, and that the SCRA should apply to your debt. 

Failure to comply can result in legal action. 

Military Lending Act: The Military Lending Act limits the 

annual percentage rate for credit to no more than 36 

percent and includes associated costs of the loan, like 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 201

fees and the sale of credit products sold with the loan. 

This rate is known as the military annual percentage 

rate, or MAPR. Additionally, the Military Lending Act 

prohibits mandatory arbitration, difficult contract 

provisions, using an allotment to secure the loan, 

waiving Servicemembers Civil Relief Act rights, charging 

a penalty for early payments, using a post-dated check 

to secure a loan, refinancing certain loans and the use of 

bank accounts and car titles to secure certain other 

loans. Current protections cover payday, vehicle title and 

tax refund anticipation loans. Purchases made through 

rent-to-own and overdrafts on checking accounts are not 

covered.

Lastly, while a local bank may be your best option, you 

may have to change accounts when you make a 

permanent change of station move.

Check writing: You must pay close attention to each 

transaction to ensure you always know your checking 

account balance; this ensures you have sufficient funds 

in the account and do not write a fraudulent check.

There are several consequences for writing a bad check, 

service charges, negative credit ratings, and additional 

punishments if the check was used on post. 

Retirement: Although retirement may seem a long way 

off, the sooner you start saving the better off you will be. 
202 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

A delay of only 5 years in starting contributions could 

mean several hundred thousand dollars later! 

The Army’s retirement contribution system is the Thrift 

Savings Plan (TSP). TSP contributions can be started 

on MyPay and managed at: https://www.tsp.gov. In most 

cases for new Soldiers the ROTH option (paying taxes 

upfront but no taxes on interest when the money is 

withdrawn) is better, but it is important to research all 

options and talk to the financial planner at your Soldier 

Support Center. 

Military One Source: 

http://www.militaryonesource.mil/financial-and-legal and 

many other resources are available online to help you 

determine how much to save, and how much money will 

be needed in retirement. 

The DoD Blended Retirement System is going live 

on 1 January, 2018. Below is a graphic covering a 

quick overview of the current and new systems. 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 203
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A-3. Tri-Service Health Care (TRICARE)

The Army is dedicated to taking care of its most 

important assets, Soldiers and military Family members. 

TRICARE is the Department of Defense's worldwide 

health care program available to eligible beneficiaries 

from the uniformed services. 

TRICARE is free to Soldiers but may involve some outof-pocket expenses for Family members. The cost varies 

depending on the Soldier's rank and the specific 

TRICARE program option in which the Family member is 

enrolled.

Through the TRICARE program, Family members can 

also go to civilian health care providers if they desire. 

But before going to a civilian practitioner, Family 

members should talk to the Beneficiary Counseling and 

Assistance Coordinator (BCAC) at the nearest military 

health care facility to see if there are any out-of-pocket 

expenses. The BCAC will confirm your registration in the 

Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System

(DEERS), and can provide a list of doctors in your local 

area who will accept TRICARE patients. 

When permitted, visit TRICARE online for more 

information on your military health benefits and regional 

health plans—www.tricare.mil.
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 205

A-4. Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance (SGLI)

As a United States Soldier, you may encounter hostile 

situations while stationed abroad and in combat. The 

well-being of your Family is of the greatest concern to 

the Army. 

One of the many benefits afforded Soldiers is the 

opportunity to purchase very low-cost life insurance. 

SGLI provides up to a maximum of $400,000. SGLI 

automatically covers you for this maximum amount 

unless you select in writing a lesser amount, in 

increments of $50,000. You may also decline SGLI 

altogether, but this decision is so important that you

must also do that in writing. The payment is deducted 

automatically from your pay each month. Soldiers with 

Families almost always select coverage in the maximum 

amount. 

Spouses and children are eligible for Family SGLI. 

Coverage for a spouse is automatically $100,000 unless 

a lesser amount, in steps of $10,000, is chosen. 

When permitted, visit the Service member’s Life 

Insurance website maintained by the Department of 

Veterans Affairs for additional information and 

assistance with enrollment—

http://www.benefits.va.gov/insurance/sgli.asp#cover
206 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

A-5. Dental

The level of dental care will vary from post to post, but it 

is available for all Soldiers. Family member care is 

generally not available at military dental facilities. 

Family members may get dental insurance through the 

TRICARE Dental Program (TDP). The TDP is dental 

insurance in which you pay a monthly fee in exchange 

for Family coverage. It is a voluntary, cost effective, 

comprehensive program offered worldwide by the 

Department of Defense to Family members of all active 

duty branches of the military, Selected Reserve, and 

Individual Ready Reserve members and their Family 

members. 

Just as is the case for TRICARE health care, Family 

members must be registered in DEERS to be eligible for 

the TRICARE Dental Program. 

In order to participate, the Soldier must have 12 months 

left on his or her service commitment at the time of 

enrollment, and submit an enrollment form with the first 

month's premium or enroll online using a charge card. 

The monthly premiums will usually be deducted from the 

Soldier's pay, although there are other payment options. 

Depending on the dental procedures performed, 

treatment may be completely covered by the insurance, 

or there may be co-payments required. 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 207

There is a maximum annual amount that TRICARE will 

pay for any one beneficiary. Once that yearly amount is 

reached for the individual, all costs above the maximum 

must be paid for by the Family. 

When permitted, complete information and instructions 

on how to enroll and find a local dental provider are 

available on-line at: 

http://www.tricare.mil/CoveredServices/Dental.aspx. 

A-6. Army Emergency Relief

Army Emergency Relief (AER) is a private nonprofit 

organization incorporated in 1942 by the Secretary of 

War and the Army Chief of Staff. AER’s mission is to 

provide emergency financial assistance to Soldiers and 

their Families.

What can AER do?

Help with emergency financial needs 

for:

 Food, rent or utilities

 Emergency transportation and 

vehicle repair

 Funeral expenses

 Medical/dental expenses
208 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

 Provide college scholarships to children, spouses, 

and surviving spouses of Soldiers.

 Additional Benefits:

o Lifetime membership in the Army Air Force 

Mutual Aid Association for surviving Families 

of Soldiers who die on active duty.

o Grants for wounded Soldiers medically 

evacuated from a theater of combat

o Personal Financial Management Training for 

Soldiers in AIT

Who is eligible?

 Active duty Soldiers, single or married, and their 

Family members.

 Army National Guard and Army Reserve Soldiers 

on continuous active duty for more than 30 days 

and their Family members (Title 10, USC).

 Soldiers retired from active duty for longevity or 

physical disability, and their Family members.

 Army National Guard and Army Reserve Soldiers 

who retired at age 60, and their Family members.

 Surviving spouses and orphans of Soldiers who 

died while on active duty or after they retired.

How do I get assistance?
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 209

 Through your unit chain of command and the 

installation AER section.

 If there is no AER section near you, you can get 

assistance through:

o American Red Cross (local chapter, or 24 hour 

emergency services)

o Air Force Base (Air Force Aid Society)

o Navy/Marine Corps Base (Navy-Marine Corps 

Relief Society)

o Coast Guard Base (Coast Guard Mutual 

Assistance) 

Can my spouse get AER help if I’m away?

Yes. Your spouse should bring:

 Power of Attorney

 Military ID Card

 Substantiating documents

What kind of assistance can I expect?

 An interest free loan.

 A grant if repayment of loan will cause undue 

hardship.

 Part loan and part grant.

How can I help AER? 
210 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

 Remind fellow Soldiers about AER when they 

have financial emergencies. 

 Support AER with a contribution and encourage 

others to contribute.

 The Army-wide annual AER fund campaign is 

conducted 1 March –15 May. 

 You can contribute to your local AER fund 

campaign or send your contribution to AER 

National Headquarters. 

 All contributions are tax deductible. 

 Unsolicited donations are accepted any time by 

mail or on-line.

For more information contact your local AER officer or 

visit our website at www.aerhq.org.

 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 211

A-7. Soldier for Life and Credentialing

If you serve faithfully and honorably, you are a Soldier 

for Life, whether you are in the active or reserve 

components, or serve for one enlistment or a long 

career. 

The Army wants to be a partner in your lifelong success. 

Everyone leaves active duty at some point, and most will 

need (or want) a civilian job. We want to help you have 

a successful transition to civilian life and civilian 

employment. 

It’s never too early to start thinking about your long-term 

goals and taking steps, even small ones, to achieve 

them. 

While in the Army, you will learn valuable skills. Strive to 

be the best in your specialty. One of the reasons 

veterans sometimes have trouble finding jobs is that they 

have trouble explaining their military experience in terms 

that are meaningful to civilian employers. 

One of the best ways to do that is by earning a 

credential. A credential is government license (usually 

state governments) or a certification from a nongovernment credentialing agency. 

Commercial truck driver’s licenses and medical licenses 

are examples of government-issued credentials. 
212 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Non-government credentialing agencies that offer 

certifications include the National Institute for Automotive 

Service Excellence, the American Culinary Federation, 

and the American Welding Society. 

You can learn about credentials related to your MOS on 

the website “Army Credentialing Opportunities On-line at 

https://www.cool.army.mil/ (or do a search under “Army 

COOL”). You will learn more about credentialing in your 

military training and from the leaders in your unit of 

assignment. 

Soldiers in some fields are required to earn credentials, 

such as an FAA license for Air Traffic Controllers, but for 

most Soldiers, credentialing programs are voluntary. 

You may work on a credential on your own, or you might 

have the opportunity to participate in an Army sponsored 

credentialing program. 

Most of these programs are offered to students in Army 

schools. When you go to an Army School, you might be 

asked if you want to volunteer to take a credentialing 

exam. The Army might give you study material, 

including web-based training. They might pay your fees 

and make arrangements for you to take the exam. We 

encourage you to take advantage of these programs, 

take them seriously, and study. 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 213

You might earn a valuable credential that will someday 

make your job application stand out. 

The Army believes that studying for a credential in your 

field makes you a more well-rounded Soldier, and it is 

one sign that you are a true professional in your military 

specialty. 

It is difficult to provide general information about 

credentials, because there is so much variety among 

military specialties and among credentials and 

credentialing agencies. 

Some military specialties (for example, Motor Transport 

Operators, Wheeled Vehicle Mechanics, Food Service 

Specialists, and many others) closely match civilian jobs. 

Other valuable military specialties, such as Infantrymen 

and Armor Crew Members, do not match civilian jobs. 

If you are in a specialty that does not closely match a 

civilian job and does not have a lot of credentialing 

opportunities, there are several things you can do. 

Some of these are good ideas for all Soldiers:

 In the words of the Chief of Staff of the Army, the 

best credential is often a college degree. When 

you finish your Initial Military Training, talk the 

Career Counselor in your unit and to an Education 

Counselor, they can advise you about continuing 

your education. 
214 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

 Remember that you are still learning life skills that 

will be valuable to an employer. Army Veterans 

tend to be reliable, hard-working, goal-oriented, 

“team players” and drug-free. As a future NonCommissioned Officer (sergeant), you will learn 

leadership, effective communication, how to train 

others, and how to supervise a job site. 

 Even if your “main job” doesn’t match a civilian 

job, take advantage of any opportunities that come 

your way to learn new skills, for example, 

computer skills and operating and maintaining 

different types of equipment.

 Keep checking! The Army is developing new

credentialing opportunities. 

Tips and Precautions: One of the reasons that some 

credentials are so valuable is that they are hard to get. If 

you sign up for a credentialing exam, study! 

 If you did your best, don’t be discouraged if you 

don’t pass on the first try. Remember everything 

you learned by studying to take the exam, and 

consider trying again.

 If you choose a credential to work on, be sure that 

the credential is the right one for you. Before you 

spend your money or use up some of your military 

benefits, make sure that the credential is offered 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 215

by a reputable agency and is known and valued by 

employers. 

 Many credentials have re-certification 

requirements or continuing education 

requirements. Know what they are.

 Army COOL, Army Career Tracker, and 

credentialing agency websites contain a wealth of 

information. Talk to your instructors and leaders, 

your unit Career Counselor and education 

counselors. Ask questions! 

A-8. Information websites for family members 

The Army recognizes the important role that spouses 

and Family members play in supporting Soldiers and in 

keeping our Army communities strong. 

Each Army installation has its own website that is full of 

useful information for your Family and can be found by

searching for the name of the installation on the internet. 

Be sure to look for the official site indicated by the 

ending “army.mil” in the web address. We have provided 

you with a few useful websites to vital information 

sources throughout this Blue Book and additional 

sources are located below. 
216 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

It is extremely important to you and the Army that we link 

your Family members with resources to help integrate 

them into the Army lifestyle. 

Use these websites and the others embedded in this 

book as you progress through your career from BCT to 

your first unit of assignment. 

They will provide a wide variety of information to your 

Family and help them progress with you throughout your 

Army career. 

 Start here with the “Army Family and New Spouse 

Orientation” video. 

http://vimeo.com/9936630

 My Army One-Source answers hundreds of 

Family-related questions.

http://www.myarmyonesource.com

 Army Knowledge On-Line (AKO) will allow you to 

sponsor your spouse with an AKO account similar 

to yours.

https://www.us.army.mil

 Commanding General for Initial Military Training 

Knowledge Center requires an AKO account to 

log-in and provides information about your training 

and resources available to you and your Family. 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 217

https://www.us.army.mil/suite/page/630102

 Civilian Personnel On-line is where your spouse 

can look for and apply for a job with the Army at 

any Army installation and the Army gives spouses 

an employment preference.

https://www.usajobs.gov/

 Family members new to Army life can find 

answers to their questions regarding Army 

benefits. http://myarmybenefits.us.army.mil

 Contact the Red Cross to notify a Soldier of a 

Family emergency and/or search for your local 

Red Cross representative.www.redcross.org

 The official TRICARE web site is where you and 

your Family members can find information on 

military healthcare coverage.

www.tricare.mil

 Visit the Dental Program online for local dentists in 

your area and information regarding dental care.

www.tricare.mil/dental/TDP.aspx

 Your LES and other pay information can be 

obtained from the official MyPay Homepage. 

https://mypay.dfas.mil/
218 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

 Army COOL (Credentialing Opportunities OnLine). https://www.cool.army.mil/

 Army Career Tracker: https://actnow.army.mil/

 Improved Outer Tactical Vest (IOTV) 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1CtmLG45k_A

&feature=youtu.be
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 219

Appendix B – Manual of Applied 

Performance Skills (MAPS)
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GOAL Setting Example #1

Goal 270 on APFT

Short-Term Goal A: 

Help you achieve the big 

goal (at least 3)

I will eat more nutritious meals and snacks in the next 

four weeks than I did the last four weeks

SMART Action 1: I drink no less than 80 ounces of water a day

SMART Action 2: I eat 60% clean carbs, 30% healthy fat, and 10% lean 

protein every day

SMART Action 3: I drink no more than one sports drink a day

Self-Talk: 

(1 per short-term goal)

At meal times, I tell myself that I expect great things 

out of my body so I put only great things in my body

Short-Term Goal B: 

Help you achieve the big goal 

(at least 3)

I will reduce my run time by 30 seconds

SMART Action 1: I run at least 3 miles twice a week

SMART Action 2:

I go for a longer run of more than 3 miles every other 

weekend

SMART Action 3: I ice my knees after every run that’s longer than a mile

Self-Talk: 

(1 per short-term goal)

When I get tired of running, I remind myself that I get 

stronger and more prepared with each step

Short-Term Goal C: 

Help you achieve the big goal 

(at least 3)

I will improve my attitude and believe in myself

SMART Action 1: I practice confident Self-Talk deliberately at least 5 times 

a day

SMART Action 2: I pay attention to my Self-Talk and make sure it’s helping 

me accomplish my goals

SMART Action 3: I remain optimistic by Hunting the Good Stuff every night 

before bed

Self-Talk: 

(1 per short-term goal)

Before bed, I remind myself that I am prepared, I am 

confident, and I am capable
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Appendix C – Soldier’s Notes
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Glossary

ACE Ask, Care, Escort

ACT Army Career Tracker

ACU Army Combat Uniform

AER Army Emergency Relief

AIT advanced individual training

APFT Army Physical Fitness Test

APFU Army Physical Fitness Uniform

AR Army Regulation

ARNG Army National Guard

ASU Army Service Uniform

BCAC Beneficiary Counseling and Assistance 

Coordinator

BCT Basic Combat Training

DEERS Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting 

System

EO Equal Opportunity

FM Field Manual

FTX Field Training Exercise

ID Identification

IET Initial Entry Training

LDRSHIP Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, 

Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage

LES Leave and Earning Statement

MAPS Manual of Applied Performance Skills

MOS Military Occupational Specialty
274 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

NCO Noncommissioned Officer

OPAT Occupational Physical Assessment Test

OSUT One Station Unit Training

SARC Sexual Assault Response Coordinator

SFL Soldier for Life

SGLI Service Member’s Group Life Insurance

SHARP Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and 

Prevention 

STX Situational Training Exercise

TASP Total Army Sponsorship Program

TRICARE Tri-service Health Care

UCMJ Uniform Code of Military Justice

USAR United States Army Reserve

VA Victim Advocate

WTBDs Warrior Tasks and Battle Drills

Army Definitions

A

Advanced Individual Training - a training course 

where Soldiers learn skills in a specific military 

occupational specialty

AIT Platoon Sergeant- a highly educated AIT NonCommissioned Officer who supervises, manages 

Soldiers and trains skills in a specific military 

occupational specialty
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 275

Army Values- values that characterize the Army’s 

professionalism and culture, and describe the ethical 

standards expected of all Soldiers

Army Emergency Relief- A private nonprofit 

organization incorporated in 1942 by the Secretary of 

War and the Army Chief of Staff.

Army Ethics- The evolving set of laws, values, and 

beliefs, embedded within the Army culture of trust that 

motivates and guides the conduct of Army professionals 

bound together in common moral purpose.

 Army Profession- A member of the Army Profession 

who meets the Army’s certification criteria of 

competence, character, and commitment.

B

Base- the element around which a movement is 

planned or regulated

Basic Combat Training- a training course that 

transforms civilians into Soldiers

Buddy Team- two Soldiers in the same unit who look 

after each other at all times

Bugle Call- the musical signal that announces 

scheduled and certain non-scheduled events on an 

Army installation

C
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Cadence- a uniform rhythm or number of steps or 

counts per minute

Chaplain- a spiritual support officer to every Soldier 

Code of Conduct- guidance on how a Soldier must 

conduct him or herself if captured by the enemy

Commissioned Officer- an officer who is 

commissioned into the U.S. Army; leaders with the 

authority to command Soldiers 

Conditioning Drill- a strength and mobility activity 

that helps Soldiers improve their functional strength, 

postural alignment, and body mechanics as the 

exercises relate to the quality performance of Warrior 

Tasks and Battle Drills

D

Distance- the space between elements that are one 

behind the other; the distance between individuals is 

an arm's length, plus 6 inches, or approximately 36 

inches measured from the chest of one Soldier to the 

back of the Soldier immediately to his front

Double Time- a cadence of 180 counts (steps per 

minute)

Drill Command- an oral order given by a commander 

or leader, usually in two parts; the preparatory command 

states the movement to be carried out and gets you 

ready to execute the order; the command of execution 

tells when the movement is to be carried out
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 277

Drill Sergeant- a highly educated, qualified 

noncommissioned officer and the primary instructor in 

IET who transform civilians into Soldiers

Duty- to fulfill your obligations

E

Element- an individual, squad, section, platoon, 

company, or larger unit formed as part of the next higher 

unit

Equal Opportunity- equal treatment for military 

personnel, and civilian employees without regard to 

race, color, religion, gender, or national origin

F

File- a column that has a front of one element

Formal Complaint- an EO complaint in which a 

Soldier, Family member, or DA civilian files in writing and 

swears to the accuracy of the information

Formation- an arrangement of the unit's elements in a 

prescribed manner such as a line formation in which the 

elements are side-by-side, and column formation in 

which the elements are one behind the other

Fraternization- personal relationships between officer 

and enlisted personnel regardless of their service; samegender relationships; relationships between permanent 

party members and IET Soldiers; relationships between 

IET Soldiers; violations punishable under UCMJ
278 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

Front- a space from one side to the other side of a 

formation, and includes the right and left elements

G

General Courts-Martial- a courts-martial that consists 

of a military judge and not less than five panel members 

when required; held for serious offenses

Guide- the person responsible for maintaining the 

prescribed direction and rate of march

H

Head- a column's leading element

Honor- to live up to the Army Values

I

Informal Complaint- any EO complaint that a Soldier, 

Family member or DA civilian does not wish to file in 

writing

Integrity- to do what is right, legally and morally

Interval- the space between side-by-side elements

L

Leave and Earnings Statement- a detailed pay 

statement issued at the end of each month to military 

service members, retirees, and DA civilians; statement 

contains nine sections related to military earnings and 

leave
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Loyalty- to bear true faith and allegiance to the U.S. 

Constitution, the Army, your unit, and other Soldiers

M

Marksmanship Badge- a badge awarded to 

individuals who qualify, because they have 

demonstrated some special proficiency or skill; a badge 

worn to indicate the individual’s prowess with specific 

weapons, pistols, and/or rifles and during specified 

competitions, matches, or practice exercises

Medal- Commemorative, campaign, and service 

medals are issued to Soldiers who take part in particular 

campaigns or periods of service for which a medal is 

authorized

Medal of Honor- the highest and most rarely awarded 

decoration conferred by the U.S. The medal is awarded 

for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his 

or her life above and beyond the call of duty while 

engaged in an action against an enemy of the U.S.

Military Time- a time table based on the 24-hour clock 

system

N

Noncommissioned Officer (NCO) - a senior enlisted 

technical expert, combat leader, mentor, and primary 

advisor to the commander
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O

Oath of Enlistment- the oath Soldiers make to 

officially enlist into the U. S. Army; the oath to support 

and defend the United States of America and the U.S. 

Constitution

One-Station-Unit-Training (OSUT) - basic combat 

training and advanced individual training combined into 

one course

Occupational Physical Assessment Test (OPAT) –

Test to assess physical ability to perform certain 

requirements in order to receive training for a specific 

occupation in the Army.

P

Personal Courage- to face and overcome fear, 

danger or adversity (physical or moral)

Post- the correct place for an officer or NCO to stand 

in a prescribed formation

Purple Heart- a medal awarded to persons serving in 

any capacity as a member of the Armed Forces who are 

killed or wounded (requiring treatment by a medical 

officer) in any action against enemies of the U.S.

Q

Quick Time- a cadence of 120 counts (steps per 

minute)

R
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Rank- a line that is only one element in depth

Respect- to treat people as they should be treated

Restricted Reporting- A reporting option that allows 

military sexual assault victims to confidentially disclose 

the assault to a SARC, VA, or Health Care Provider and 

receive medical treatment, including emergency care, 

counseling, and assignment of a SARC and VA, without 

triggering an official investigation. The victim’s report 

provided to healthcare SARCs, or VAs will NOT be 

reported to law enforcement or to the command to 

initiate the official investigative process unless the victim 

consents. Only a SARC, SAPR VA, or healthcare 

personnel may receive a Restricted Report. A Victim can 

also speak to a Chaplain without triggering an official 

investigation however, Chaplains cannot initiate a 

restricted report.

 Risk Management- a decision-making process used 

to identify and eliminate or reduce risks associated with 

all hazards that have the potential to injure or kill 

personnel, damage or destroy equipment, or otherwise 

impact mission effectiveness

S

Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC) -

The SARC is the single point of contact within an 

organization or installation that oversees sexual assault 

awareness, prevention, and response training; 
282 TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4

coordinates medical treatment, including emergency 

care, for victims of sexual assault; and tracks the 

services provided to a victim of sexual assault from the 

initial report through final disposition and resolution. 

The SARC is responsible for ensuring that victims of 

sexual assault receive appropriate and responsive care. 

Upon notification of a sexual assault and after receiving 

consent from the victim, the SARC will assign a VA to 

assist the victim. SARCs supervise VAs, but are 

authorized to perform VA duties if required. 

Selfless Service- to put the welfare of the Nation, the 

Army, and your subordinates before your own

Service Member’s Group Life Insurance (SGLI) -

military life insurance

Sexual Assault- a crime defined as intentional sexual 

contact, characterized by use of force, physical threat, or 

abuse of authority or when victim does not or cannot 

consent. “Consent” will not be deemed or construed to 

mean the failure by the victim to offer physical 

resistance. Consent is not given when a person uses 

force, threat of force, or coercion or when the victim is 

asleep, incapacitated, or unconscious.

Sexual Contact- Touching or causing another person 

to touch, either directly or through clothing either 

genitalia, anus, groin, breast, inner thigh or buttocks 

with an intent to abuse, humiliate or degrade any person; 

or touching or causing another person to touch any body 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 283

part of that person, either directly or through clothing if 

done with an intent to arouse/gratify sexual desire.

Sexual Harassment- a form of gender discrimination 

that involves unwelcome sexual advances, requests for 

sexual favors, and other verbal, or physical conduct of 

a sexual nature

Soldier- a highly dedicated, uniformed member of the 

U.S. Army who stands ready to defend the United States 

from its enemies

Soldierization- an extensive five-phase training 

program in Initial Entry Training

Special Court-Martial- a courts-martial that consists 

of a military judge and not less than three panel 

members when required. It is held for relatively serious 

offenses

Summary Courts-Martial- a court-martial composed 

of a commissioned officer on active duty with the grade 

of captain or above. The purpose of the summary courtmartial is to make thorough and impartial inquiries into

minor offenses and to make sure that justice is done, 

with the interests of both the government and the 

accused being safeguarded

T

 Thrift Savings Plan- a Federal Governmentsponsored retirement savings and investment plan
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TRICARE- the Department of Defense's worldwide 

health care program available to eligible beneficiates 

from the uniformed services

U

Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) - the 

statute that prescribes criminal law for Soldiers

Unrestricted Reporting- A process that an individual 

uses to disclose, without requesting confidentiality or 

Restricted Reporting, that he or she is the victim of a 

sexual assault. Under these circumstances, the victim’s 

report provided to healthcare personnel, the SARC, a 

SAPR VA, command authorities, or other persons is 

reported to law enforcement and may be used to initiate 

the official investigative process.

V

Victim Advocate (VA) - Provides non-clinical crisis 

intervention, referral, and ongoing non-clinical support to 

victims. Support includes providing information on 

available options and resources to victims. The VA, on 

behalf of the sexual assault victim, provides liaison 

assistance with other organizations and agencies on 

victim care matters and reports directly to the SARC 

when performing victim advocacy duties. VA services 

are available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. 
TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4 285

W

Warrant Officer- a technical expert, combat leader, 

trainer, and advisor skilled in a specific technical 

specialty

Warrior Tasks and Battle Drills (WTBDs) - the 

critical skills Soldiers are taught in Initial Entry Training; 

skills Soldiers train on and use throughout their Army 

career

 The United States of America exists because there is a 

United States Army, which is arguably the best land force the 

world has ever seen. The U.S. Army is an institution founded 

on values and a bedrock of trust between it and the American 

people it serves. The U.S. Army Soldier is professional, 

disciplined, and reflects the best of our country.

 The title of Soldier is never given, it is earned, and what is 

earned is yours forever. Like the men and women that came 

before you, from the earliest days of the Revolutionary War to 

the Mountains of Afghanistan and the deserts of Iraq, the 

responsibility of defending our nation will be yours. When you 

graduate Basic Training you will have earned the right to be

called Soldier and your name will forever be associated with

the greatest Army on Earth. 

 There are no ex-Soldiers, only Soldiers. Whether you 

decide to complete one enlistment or make the Army your 

career, upon completion of honorable service you will have 

earned the title of Veteran or Retired Soldier but will always be 

a Soldier for Life. U.S. Army Soldiers, Veterans and Retirees 

are the strength in our communities and the leaders of our 

country; you will be that leader.

Once a Soldier, Always a Soldier...a Soldier for Life!

www.soldierforlife.army.mil