CBT -- Two Questions?

[ThatsWhy]

Thank you for all the helpful threads and information. I have two quick questions as I begin thinking about high school graduation gifts for a New Cadet Candidate.

1. Now that earrings can be worn with ACUs, will female New Cadet Candidates be able to wear guideline compliant earrings during CBT?

2. Can a New Cadet Candidate show up for the first day with the bare minimum and then receive a package from home with the extras a few days into CBT? I have read threads about the packing list and all of the extras people suggest bringing to CBT -- such as moleskin and sock liners -- and am wondering about the New Cadet Candidate carrying so many items the first day. I see great benefit to packing heavy and packing light and am wondering whether shipping moleskin and the second pair of running shoes can present a compromise.

 

[Casey]

I don’t know if it will be a privilege afforded to NCs to wear earrings in uniform (would be surprised if it is but weird things happen), but I would recommend against it during Beast even if allowed. One, you don’t want to do things that potentially make you different during Beast from your fellow NCs. Do everything you can to blend in.

Second, the intent for soldiers to be able to wear earrings in ACUs is for garrison, not a field environment, when ACUs are the duty uniform. They can pose a safety risk to you when you’re out conducting training if you hit your head and the environments you’ll be in won’t necessarily be the cleanest or afford opportunities to shower everyday.

Finally, it’s something to consider when you’re building your reputation as a female cadet and future officer of the image your portraying to the folks around you. I am all for being able to embrace our femininity while serving, but in an appropriate time and place. Combat uniform conducting training is not the best place. Professional looking earrings in a class uniform or in a strictly garrison environment, much more appropriate.


For your second question, just consider the time delay between from when you get a PO Box assigned to you, are able to pass the PO Box to whoever is holding your stuff, the transit time to get the package to you, and possible delays in getting to the mail room while the post office is open to get your package. If it’s only a couple things you’re looking to bring, bring it on R-day if you can’t survive without it. Otherwise, you’re at the mercy of your cadre to a certain degree of getting your package and being able to keep it. Some years/cadre will hold packages for you until the end of the summer. Using the C-store for miscellaneous items you forgot like moleskin is probably a faster route