Anything will help this lowly Pfc. h.gif
ie...  is shipping list strict or "recomended"?
Is it  as hot as I've been told? Sept.?
Being a relativly mature 25 yr old w/ some weapon and fieldcraft experiance.  I am concerned with my basic class being considerably younger than me, and consequently, will I be pushed harder than my 18yo brethren.  Is this a valid concern or pre-basic jitters?
Thank you for your service and imput.   My intention is to be a benifit to the greater goals of our nation and the Army.  Any and all of your imput will be greatly appreciated and taken with modesty.  
           

Follow the packing list. You won't need or have time for any civilian luxury items so don't waste you money. If you bring ANYTHING that isn't authorized it's going in the amnesty box and you'll never see it again. Don't bring ANY knife of any kind. You don't need a leatherman in basic, and if you do the Army will either give you one or you can buy it at the PX. Don't bring food, books other than a bible or other religous book or address book. If you take any medication for allergies make sure you clear it with your recruiter and have whatever paperwork you need to justify it. Your age will have nothing to do with how hard your drill sergeants are on you, only how hard you do or don't perform. Shut up, don't volunteer, and pay attention. Are you going for Infantry school or just the basic phase? Yes, Ft. Benning is still F-ING HOT in september, but cools off by the beginning of October. I went through in 1982-83 at A-7-1 which is now 4 BN 30 Infantry, Treadwell Barracks on Sand Hill.  I was a Starship trooper.

B-1-19 - 1991 - "The Rock of Chickamaga"

+1 on almost everything.

Volunteer.  Worst case, DI notices it and you get an extra notch in his/her opinion...and you get the shit job you were going to get anyway.

When I went thru in 2000 I ran around town buying up all the stuff that was on the list and then when I arrived they had me buy all new stuff anyway. Don't buy shower shoes, don't bring underwear, bring whatever running shoes you have already- they'll most likely fit you with new ones there (that you'll be paying for).  If you prefer a particular brand of soap/shampoo or any other hygene item I would bring that with you along with an adress book. Anything else you'll be able to buy or get issued there. You dodn;t even need to bring cash, they'll give you a 'debit card' that has a payroll advance credited to it.
What is on the list anyway?
Oh and don't bother shaving your head before you go, they'll just cut it again and charge you for it regardless.

My overall advice for you, do your absolute best to remain anonymous for the first few weeks.  It can be done. I would say that because you probably will be older than most and probably more mature and ready to lead you'll be one of the first to be appointed to Squad Leader or Platoon Guide. Basic has three phases- Red, White and Blue.
Red- Mass punishment, one person phucks up, you all phucked up, everyone gets punsihed. Drill Sgt is there to wake you up and there to put you to bed, he may even sleep in the bay with you. This is when it is most important to lay low.
White- The platon is expected to have bonded and established cohesion by now. You are expected to try and settle problems at the lowest level (Squad Leader/PG) before the Drill knows there is a problem. Smaller offenses are punsished individually, larger problems and everyone gets a workout. You now know the routine and surprises are not so common, OK to start volunteering and identifying yourself. Drill Sgt starts stepping back a bit.
Blue- Nearing the end of basic, Platoon should be functioning as a single element. You know the routine and what to do, your expected to do it. Mass punishment is rare. Drill Sgt changes roles and transforms from a disciplinarian to a mentor and comrade. Your should be able to function without supervision. Make yourself known now if you haven't allready.

There are good times and shitty times, remember it's only 10 weeks, it'll be over soon enough.

I went through in 2000 also. I was also 24. Just try to work as a member of the team, that will get you farther than vollenteering for everything.
As far as the packing list. Pack light. I brought 2 changes of clothes that i didnt wear the whole time, then after basic they were to big anyway. Wear one thing and pack a second 'outfit'. If you already have your running shoes wear them. I found it way easier to buy everything when i got to reception, basic then again at AIT.

Definately bring as little as possible, otherwise you will regret it when you are standing in formation trying to hold all the crap they issue you plus the junk you brought and won't need off the ground lol.

Quoted: B-1-19 - 1991 - "The Rock of Chickamaga"

Just graduated there in March. ENFORCERS LEAD THE WAY!

Hey Rocky.
When do you ship?
I'll be there sometime after the 22nd.

I'm also going with the Class of 20050922 Hooah!

I leave for Benning on June 12th.   Good info, thanks!

Quoted: All of you better check back in with us after each phase!   Good luck!

You got it. I'm hoping I wont be back till after the SERE course. <-and not look like that after it.

Hey guys, I'm shipping to Benning on the 22nd. 1 week!