In each episode the recruits are given one hour to elect a Squad Leader from among their ranks. The Squad Leader works in liaison with the Drill Instructors to train the squad for an elaborate combat mission. If the Mission is unsuccessful, no Amnesty is granted and the Squad Leader is fair game to be dismissed or discharged along with the other recruits. Each Mission will test the recruit's ability to think under pressure and act together as a unit. Success is rewarded.
Failure is punished.
Now here's the catch. Simply put, the person who is voted out must take someone with them. Any recruit can be discharged for any reason with the exception of a squad leader who has earned Amnesty for that particular week. The events are based on physical, mental, and endurance tests. Dog tags are awarded to the winner of each gauntlet event.