Basic Combat Training: Reception - GDS Episode 006
Disclaimer: These are educated guesses as to how things may go for you based upon my experience at Fort Jackson Reception and how they operated.
Here are some topics I didn't cover in episode 006.
Packet
You will probably receive your Warrior Tasks and Battle Drills Book, Initial Entry Training book (aka "Smart Book") and hand sanitizer. The smart book and sanitizer may end up being an inspectable item you will need to keep on you throughout your entire stay in Basic Combat Training. (The sanitizer is provided because you will not always have the luxury of washing your hands with soap and water).
Amnesty Brief
If I recall correctly, the amnesty brief is basically a brief on what you are allowed and not allowed to have with you during the remainder of your time at reception battalion (and even at your BCT company for the most part).
Post Exchange (PX)
You will have an opportunity to go to the post exchange to purchase some basic, but necessary items just prior to shipping to your actual BCT company. Here are two links to two (downloadeable/printalbe) tables that Fort Jackson provides on their website in accordance with Army Regulation (AR) 612-201.
- "What to bring list" - Items Future Soldiers shoudl wear or bring to Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) on ship day.
- "What to buy list" - Items to purchased at Reception Post Exchange (PX).
Moment of Truth
The moment of truth is where the future soldiers are asked as a whole if there is anything that you lied about, "failed" to share or admit during the enlistment process or what have you. You aren't expected to admit these things in front of others, but it' s just a final chance for you to come clean privately before attempting to move forward with training.
Phone Call
As far as I know and from what I've read, you are strongly encouraged to bring your mobile phone with you when you ship as it will be your secondary means of communication with family (apart from writing letters--the primary means of communication). Bring it with you and use it as much as possible if allowed while you're at reception! Drill sergeants will most likely return you mobile phone to you once each phase to make a super-short phone call to family.
That is all for now. If I come across further informationt that needs to be added here, or if have a topic that you feel should be addressed for BCT Reception, please email me at godavidstrong@gmail.com.
