Should The US Army Increase Its Basic Training?

Basic training provides a level-set for all troops. A set of skills that can be depended upon Army-wide. More advanced training always follows basic, but specifically tailored to the soldiers job field. Finally, a soldiers first few months at their duty station includes more training.

The best reason for leaving it like it is is simple -- it works. The US Army is all-around better than the Russian Army. Don't mess with a good thing.

Yes it should be tougher...Its kinda sad that Canada's...canada of all places has way harder training than even your marines. Mind you we are the second highest trained army in the world due to the fact we don't have many personel but lots of land and time to train on we do it for more time

The Russians simply have something different going for themselves - their training is still brutal, emphasising drills and endurance. Beatings are still common. Somewhat archaic, but definitely not without its benefits.

Some "concessions" are for the better - good luck trying to teach a recruit skills when he's groggy and half asleep, or when he's all the way in the hospital because you punched him or had him doing calisthenics until he ruptured something (while you were standing on the sidelines).

Now, maybe you Americans could put more emphasis on teaching recruits actual military skills.

The PT Test run is 2 miles, so most of the runs you will do are in the 2 to 3 mile range.

Why ?

Basic training is just that, A basic level of training that all members of a service recieve.

You do not stop training after basic.

You still have you advanced training.

And once at your unit, you have still more training you do.

Yes, call it Basic Extended Training: Or How I learned to Stop worrying and love the Mess hall food. How's that for an increase?

Our Training is smarter - Not easier...! Real training begins after basic once reached first unit.

Yes, it should be tougher -- why people get a holiday break from basic training is beyond me!

I heard the changes made to USMC basic since 19 years ago when I joined and it made me wonder if the recruits wear skirts in basic these days

Basic was tough for a reason

I think the Air Force, Navy, and Army boot camps should mirror the Coast Guard and Marine Corps boot camp.

There is no logical reason why one should be easier or shorter than the other.