White Phase: Week 2 - Day 7

Today has been a pretty mild day. We had our second full PT test this morning. I was a little nervous as to how, and if, I would improve, but ended up surprising myself. I was able to max the push ups portion with 80 reps. I did 65 sit ups, an improvement of 6 reps. Finally, I ran the 2 mile in 14:36. I was really, really surprised at this since it's about a minute faster than my previous time. I noticed after my second of three laps that I had a chance to run it in 14 minutes. I decided to focus on every reason I was here, every sacrifice and just run the lap. I hit a pace and set a new personal record. It felt great. Thirteen minutes, here I come.

The only other event was of a negative variety. A member of our platoon has been concealing a cell phone the entire cycle. The platoon found out and we had to turn him in. It doesn't help that he's not a team player, immature and selfish. He's probably getting an article 15 ($800 fine and 45 days extra duty) and recycled (starts basic over). The worst punishment might have been standing in front of the platoon and having them tell him how they feel. There were a couple of guys crying because they were so angry. This guy jeopardized our phone privileges. It was a very emotional event. You have so many people here who really don't get it. It disgusts me to wear the same uniform as these guys. I take pride in the decision I've made and measure it by my sacrifice. To be judged by selfish, immature, screw ups angers me. I don't want them in my Army.

White Phase: Week 2 - Day 6

All in all, this week has been pretty uneventful. We spent a couple of days in the field at the range. This is remarkable for only two reasons. One, we worked on buddy team bounding, covering fire, etc. Real soldiering skills. Secondly, and perhaps more importantly, I learned exactly how much I've grown. You know you've really broadened your horizons when you can comfortably move your bowels surrounded by 5 other guys. No wimpy stalls or partitions. Just you, a pot and 5 of your closest friends. Oh, how my world has changed. Then, today (Friday) we all got our second round of hepatitis shots and are cleaning. Can't you feel the excitement? Admit it, you thought the Army would be more exciting. It's amazing how quickly it has gone. I'm down to 27 days remaining in basic training. Some of those days are devoted to graduation rehearsal and turning in equipment. I can't say I'm sad about it, though. While I've settled into a routine, I'm still ready to get out of here.