Seton Hall Pirate Battalion Cadets Excel in Three-Day Field Training Exercise at Picatinny Arsenal

In a display of discipline, teamwork, and readiness, the cadets of Seton Hall University's Pirate Battalion recently undertook a rigorous three-day Field Training Exercise (FTX) at Picatinny Arsenal from November 10 to 12. The immersive experience aimed to enhance their military skills, foster teamwork, and evaluate the readiness of the junior cadets for the upcoming Cadet Summer Training at Fort Knox, Kentucky.

The FTX commenced with a focused agenda on day one, emphasizing team-building and individual skill development. Cadets engaged in various instructional exercises, including land navigation (landnav), machine gun skills, Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC), and squad movement techniques. These foundational skills are critical for military success and form the bedrock of a cadet's training.

Under the watchful eyes of experienced trainers, cadets navigated challenging terrain, honed their proficiency with machine guns, and demonstrated their ability to administer life-saving medical care in simulated combat scenarios. The emphasis on individual tasks aimed to prepare each cadet to contribute effectively within a team dynamic, a principle that was central to the success of the following days' activities.

The subsequent two days of the FTX shifted the focus to the junior cadets, specifically those in their third year (MS3 cadets). This critical juncture in their training saw them rotating through leadership positions in Situational Training Exercise (STX) lanes. The objective was clear: to assess their leadership capabilities, decision-making skills, and adaptability under pressure.

STX lanes are realistic scenarios that replicate combat situations. The cadets faced challenges that required effective communication, strategic thinking, and precise execution of military tactics. This hands-on experience not only assessed their individual leadership competencies but also evaluated how well they could function as a cohesive unit.

Overall feedback from the event was positive with Cadet Lukowski, who planned and organized the entire exercise saying, "Honestly, it wasn’t the best of conditions (the cold). But I felt that while we were all together as an Army family going through the hard times it made us bond and really made it a great experience. I would do it every day if I was with the same people, we truly have tremendous Cadre and especially cadets who make hard times like that worth it."

The overarching goal of the FTX was to prepare the MS3 cadets for the Cadet Summer Training scheduled at Fort Knox, Kentucky. With the intensive evaluation of their skills and leadership qualities during the FTX, the cadets are better equipped to face the demanding scenarios awaiting them at Fort Knox.

The Seton Hall Pirate Battalion has a history of producing skilled and disciplined officers, and this FTX continues the tradition of excellence. The program takes pride in its commitment to developing future leaders who embody the core values of honor, duty, and service.

As the cadets return to their academic routines, the lessons learned during the FTX will resonate in their training and character development. Seton Hall's Pirate Battalion continues to mold the next generation of military leaders, instilling in them the values and skills necessary to excel in the complex and dynamic landscape of modern military service.

Categories: Campus Life