Training Air Cavalry Troop In Battle Drill

Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) John B. Stockton and Staff Sergeant (SSG) Bert Chole reported to Fort Benning on two separate missions, unknown to each other, but whose destinies would ultimately lead to the former taking the 1st Squadron 9th Air Cavalry to Vietnam and the later to bring the Squadron back from Vietnam. This is story about the 1st Squadron 9th (Air) Cavalry leading up to its deployment to Vietnam and the five years, nine months and nine days of service in Vietnam.

Summary: The Department of the Army Field Manual 17-36 presently allots 43 pages to the employment of the Armored Cavalry Platoon. Although nearly all of the doctrine I am about to discuss is briefly covered within those pages, nothing similar to a Battle Drill is presented. A set of simple, easily learned drills for platoon operation should be adopted, Army wide, to assist platoon leaders and their superiors in the conduct of training and operations for this very complex organization.

This manual, TRADOC Pamphlet TP 600-4 The Soldier's Blue Book: The Guide for Initial Entry Soldiers August 2019, is the guide for all Initial Entry Training (IET) Soldiers who join our Army Profession. It provides an introduction to being a Soldier and Trusted Army Professional, certified in character, competence, and commitment to the Army. The pamphlet introduces Solders to the Army Ethic, Values, Culture of Trust, History, Organizations, and Training. It provides information on pay, leave, Thrift Saving Plans (TSPs), and organizations that will be available to assist you and your Families. The Soldier's Blue Book is mandated reading and will be maintained and available during BCT/OSUT and AIT.This pamphlet applies to all active Army, U.S. Army Reserve, and the Army National Guard enlisted IET conducted at service schools, Army Training Centers, and other training activities under the control of Headquarters, TRADOC.