7/18/16
First Full Day
C/SMSgt Lai

     The cadets woke up bright and early to the staff’s shouts of “Flood the barracks!”. The cadets woke up, quickly re-did their bunks and headed off to morning Physical Training (PT). This strenuous routine consisted of push-ups, sit-ups, and a mile run. Luckily, the weather was cool, so they were able to conduct today’s activities in relative comfort.
     After morning formation and breakfast, the three academies split to attend their respective classes. Encampment had time to further prepare their quarters and prepare mentally for the days ahead. The two NCOLS sergeants guided their flights around and learned about important NCO qualities. In addition, they experienced designing a home squadron’s normal monthly plan. Honor Guard Academy classes focused on proper day to day etiquette. All the while, the Standards and Evaluation Team (SET) graded the cadets on uniforms and room quality and cleanliness.
     After their first class, encampment had Training Leadership Projects (TLPs). In these projects, cadets had to work together as a team to solve the task at hand, such as untying a human knot or making a square out of rope the cadets held with only one cadet being able to see. This tests how well the cadets are at coordinating themselves and listening to each other.
     After lunch, all three academies had pool time. Cadets could finally cool down in the water and enjoy themselves. Before free swimming, the cadets were required to take a short swim test. This was a refreshing change to the humid weather yesterday.
The day ended with a torrential rainstorm. It broke up within the hour, but some cadets were already soaked. Tired yet excited from their first day, the cadets got ready and went to bed, wondering what else would happen in the week to come.