Initial Entry Training (IET) or United States Army Basic Training is a rigorous program of mental and physical training, which is required in order for an individual to become a soldier in the United States Army Reserve (USAR), United States Army or Army National Guard. It is designed to be highly challenging and intense, and is carried out at several different Army training centers. However, by reading these you will not only learn the basics of how to act like a soldier, you will slowly but surely become a soldier. You will also become self-confident, physically fit and able to tackle any difficulties that comes your way.

If you are thinking about serving the United States Army or you have already decided and looking for some help, then the following steps towards enlisting will make your transition into the Army easier.

STEP – 1:  Know about the Army

United States Army is the largest of all the branches of the military and has many different jobs to offer.

Chain of Command

Following are the basic building block of all Army organizations –

• Squad – Squad is a small military unit, which consists of 8 to 13 soldiers. It is led by a staff sergeant or sergeant.
• Platoon – Platoon is a military unit, which consists of 2 to 4 squads or 16 to 50 soldiers. It is typically commanded by a lieutenant or platoon leader.

The Equipment of the United States Army can be subdivided into three categories – Ammunition, Weapons and Vehicles.

Ammunition

Ammunition or Munition would include mines, missiles, bombs, and bullets.

• 9x19mm NATO – It is used in M9 Pistol. The effective range of 9mm is about 100m, although the bullet is leather at longer ranges.