question about first drill

[Blackguard]

First of all I will introduce myself. My name is Caleb or you can refer to me as my Screen name. I was sworn into the Guard a few weeks ago and my first drill is this weekend. I am excited about it, but I am not 100% sure what I am suppose to bring or what to expect. I didn't receive my uniform yet so I know that I will have to bring some shorts and jogging pants. But will that be what I am doing all the time just physical activities or will there be times that you will just lounge around in civilian clothes? If somebody could give me a list of stuff to bring and what to expect I would appreciate it. Thanks in advance.

[Ohiosoldier08]

I'm currently in RSP and before I got my uniform I jus wore sweats, shorts, or wind pants. Along with t-shirt, long sleeves, or a hoodie. When do you leave for basic? What is your MOS?

[cook_in_texas]

I haven't gone yet (just swore in Thursday), but I was told bring shorts or pants to do PT in along with a shirt I'll get before I go and comfortable running shoes, and something comfortable for afterwards. And hygenic stuff like soap and shampoo, because we get showers after PT. >.> But it might be different from place to place, that's just what I was told. I go to my first drill weekend after next (May 3rd), so I really won't know anything concrete until then.

[jesussaves]

I don't know what it's like to be a new recruit at their first drill. I didn't attend drill until after I returned from BCT. In our RSP, new recruits skip PT during their first drill. But they're still instructed to wear clothing that is appropriate for PT. Don't wear anything with an 'offensive' message on it, BTW. Make sure you shave well and get a good hair cut. Bring personal hygiene items and an extra pair of clothes in case you have to do PT. You should bring a razor too if you wear a mustache...just in case it or your sideburns or something are not in regulation. Everyone changes into their ACU's (if they have ACU's) after PT.

I don't know about other RSP's, but our days normally go like this

1. first formation
2. PT
3. shower
4. classroom instruction
5. chow
6. classroom instruction and/or D&C (drill and ceremony)
7. final formation

'course, your detachment might be doing field training or something exciting this month. Your recruiter should be able to fill you in on the little things.

[Blackguard]

thanks guys.

[MelanieIsAwesome]

If you haven't been issued the official PT uniform, just wear a t-shirt, shorts, and running shoes. Be sure to drink plenty of water, and you'll be fine. I am going to my second and last drill before i leave for basic this weekend. :)

[Medic87]

I'm going to my first RSP this weekend. I'm looking forward to it.
Still gotta get a haircut first, though. Are the regs the same as for basic?

For informational purposes, here is the list of things the MA Guard tells recruits to pack for Red & White Phases.
I'll quote it straight from the letter I was sent about it~



Recruit-Sustainment Program (RSP) PACKING LIST
-One pair of sneakers, for physical training.
-We will be doing physical training on Sat and Sun so bring PT clothes and another change of clothes for each day.
-You will not need any money while at Camp Edwards and the transportation is free. However, you should always carry at least $20 when traveling.
-Toiletries: shampoo, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, razor, shaving cream or electric razor.
-Two towels.
-Shower shoes (flip flops).
-One padlock.
-3 completed copies Direct Deposit Form, SF1199
-Picture ID
-Colder months, dress appropriately!! Bring a knit hat (preferably black), gloves, sweatshirts/pants, many layers of clothes.

Prohibited Items
-Weapons -Firearms, blackjacks, knives, firecrackers, knuckles
-Drugs -for medications, see note below
-Alcohol -Any empties found or anyone under the influence will be removed from Camp Edwards
-Gambling Devices -none
-Tobacco products -to include matches, lighters, and fuel
-Obscene or ****ographic material
-Food/Candy/Gum

Anything that we feel is inappropriate for military training will be retained by the Cadre

Allowed
**All medications will be approved and retained by the medic. You will report to the medic for each dosage.


PHASES

Red Phase
The trainees' first drill weekend with the Recruit Sustainment Program. Because they are completely new to the Guard at this point, Red Phase weekends are spent mostly in the classroom, covering basic subjects new recruits need to know right away.

White Phase
Varies in length but covers the period between their first drill weekend and the drill weekend before they ship.

Blue Phase
The final drill before shipping and covers what the shipper should expect, both at Reception Battalion and BCT.

Green Phase
For warriors in the Split Training Option (STO). These warriors will return from BCT and drill with the RSP until they go to AIT. Since they have already experienced Basic Training, these warriors are groomed as junior cadre and given additional physical readiness training and leadership training.



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When are we issued uniforms and PT's? Before we leave our first RSP?

[cook_in_texas]

When are we issued uniforms and PT's? Before we leave our first RSP?

The only people who had uniforms at all had already gone to BCT, but we're a really small training group I suppose, there's only 13 of us, or there were the last day.

As for the rest, we were all doing the exact same, except on the first day when we did PT test, a couple of people did the full PT test, and the rest of us did the 1X1X1. Even me, and I was the only new person. So, there's probably a lot of differences bewteen what happened where I went than from where every one else is going.

[Medic87]

Oh, bummer.
I figured we probably didn't get issued uniforms in RSP,
but I was hoping we'd get some PT's.

[jesussaves]

Everyone in my RSP is usually issued ACU's and PT's by their second or third drill. It didn't used to be that way though.

[Medic87]

Yeah, turns out we got PT's immediately, the first night we were there, and we were fitted for ACU's before we left. We're going to get them our third drill weekend. Also, that packing list- completely useless. It's way too much stuff that you're never going to need. Just bring a change of clothes and a hygiene kit, really... maybe a set of PT gear in case you don't get issued one.

[blbx]

everyone in my rsp site were issued acu's by there first drill weekend i mean when i went to my first drill back in august we were issued bdu's instead of acu's a lot of things have changed in rsp

[Nicsok123]

i know this sounds weird but do you sleep over when your at RSP or do you go home and then come back the next day?

[PFC Lowe]

Sleep there. Depending on what is happening that weekend though, sometimes drill may just be a Saturday or sometimes you have to split train.

[SGTHess]

i know this sounds weird but do you sleep over when your at RSP or do you go home and then come back the next day?

Depends on your RSP unit and what you are doing. If you are drilling at the RSP armory and you drive or can have someone pick you up and take you home generally you are allowed to leave.

[WIBecky74]

In Wisconsin you have to stay overnight unless you have some sort of important event that has been pre-approved of 30+ days in advance. I think what everyone is saying, it really just depends on your company.

[SGTHess]

Here is the thing about staying overnight. They cannot require you to stay overnight unless they are providing you some sort of dinner meal and some sort of breakfast meal. So if the RSP units are doing that...great! If not...well someone ought to be looking into it.

[Mr_Loki]

Not to mention that the Cadre have to be there too...and my Cadre definately wanted to get far away from the armory.

[68Wat41]

Just did my first drill this weekend (in NJ). We were required to stay over on Sat. night in the barracks -even had to do fire guard. They fed us all meals and we were out by 2:00 pm on Sunday. Have to say I enjoyed it. We didn't do much as far as "training" a lot of it was classroom time and learning basic D&C, etc.

We were issued PT Gear and ACU's on our first evening there. They didn't have 100% of everything that would fit everybody but it was pretty close. I'm missing PT shorts and my ACU cover. We also have to provide our own name tapes/patches for the next drill but I understand those cost under $10, so no sweat. Cadre was outstanding, they were there to help and very understanding, but they took no BS at all. You were taught something once and you had best remember it from there on out or you would be properly "corrected".

Word of advice to all new RSP folks. Listen carefully and do EXACTLY what your told and you'll be fine. Oh, also remember to bring pens with you EVERYWERE!!! do NOT leave them in your packs, they are part of your "uniform" and you best have one with you at all times.

[SGTHess]

Just did my first drill this weekend (in NJ). We were required to stay over on Sat. night in the barracks -even had to do fire guard. They fed us all meals and we were out by 2:00 pm on Sunday. Have to say I enjoyed it. We didn't do much as far as "training" a lot of it was classroom time and learning basic D&C, etc.

We were issued PT Gear and ACU's on our first evening there. They didn't have 100% of everything that would fit everybody but it was pretty close. I'm missing PT shorts and my ACU cover. We also have to provide our own name tapes/patches for the next drill but I understand those cost under $10, so no sweat. Cadre was outstanding, they were there to help and very understanding, but they took no BS at all. You were taught something once and you had best remember it from there on out or you would be properly "corrected".

Word of advice to all new RSP folks. Listen carefully and do EXACTLY what your told and you'll be fine. Oh, also remember to bring pens with you EVERYWERE!!! do NOT leave them in your packs, they are part of your "uniform" and you best have one with you at all times.

Wait? Let me get this straight...they are REQUIRING you to buy your own name tapes and patches?????

NO GO......as an Mday soldier you are not required to purchase ANY items for your uniform. It is their job to provide them to you. You can be dang sure I would NOT be buying my own issued uniform items.

[WIBecky74]

I wouldnt purchase anything on my own so had an incomplete uniform until I got the issue at BCT. I didnt want to represent the Army in any negative way, and didnt have any name plates, flag, or US Army plate so just choose to go straight from home to RSP drill and vise versa. Didnt stop at any stores along the way. Then while at BCT, during FTX's I had some of them ripped off my uniform during night raids. Got to my regular assigned unit now and told them I only had one name plate and US Army, Supply Sergeant just said thats why they went to velcro, its all you need. lol

[SteveLord]

Just did my first drill this weekend (in NJ). We were required to stay over on Sat. night in the barracks -even had to do fire guard. They fed us all meals and we were out by 2:00 pm on Sunday. Have to say I enjoyed it. We didn't do much as far as "training" a lot of it was classroom time and learning basic D&C, etc.

We were issued PT Gear and ACU's on our first evening there. They didn't have 100% of everything that would fit everybody but it was pretty close. I'm missing PT shorts and my ACU cover. We also have to provide our own name tapes/patches for the next drill but I understand those cost under $10, so no sweat. Cadre was outstanding, they were there to help and very understanding, but they took no BS at all. You were taught something once and you had best remember it from there on out or you would be properly "corrected".

Word of advice to all new RSP folks. Listen carefully and do EXACTLY what your told and you'll be fine. Oh, also remember to bring pens with you EVERYWERE!!! do NOT leave them in your packs, they are part of your "uniform" and you best have one with you at all times.

2800 of their soldiers just left for Texas and then Iraq.....could be why supplies are hard to come by for the state.

[68Wat41]

Wait? Let me get this straight...they are REQUIRING you to buy your own name tapes and patches?????

NO GO......as an Mday soldier you are not required to purchase ANY items for your uniform. It is their job to provide them to you. You can be dang sure I would NOT be buying my own issued uniform items.

This is strictly for the RSP program. As it was explained to us, they're not required to provide us with ACU's at all, but they're trying to give us what they have. We are also not REQUIRED to buy the name tapes, etc. I just don't want to wear an incomplete uniform. In particular, I need a cover - I have a shaved head and standing out in the sun all weekend uncovered has left me looking like a lobster!

[txwarrior]

Great thread! It seems like RSP is different everywhere. I'm in Houston, Tx and we're not required to stay overnight. We had to provide sizes for ACU's but have no idea if or when they'll be issued. Hope they are though; everyone knows you're red phase when all you have to wear is PT gear and red phase gets smoked way more than everyone else!!
PS, what state is everyone from?

[Miles]

Great thread! It seems like RSP is different everywhere. I'm in Houston, Tx and we're not required to stay overnight. We had to provide sizes for ACU's but have no idea if or when they'll be issued. Hope they are though; everyone knows you're red phase when all you have to wear is PT gear and red phase gets smoked way more than everyone else!!
PS, what state is everyone from?

Ha yeah, it was cool our red phase was awesome. The cadre while smoking white phase was saying how were doing better than them. It was nice, our motto was legit to.

[ahsan]

Great thread! It seems like RSP is different everywhere. I'm in Houston, Tx and we're not required to stay overnight. We had to provide sizes for ACU's but have no idea if or when they'll be issued. Hope they are though; everyone knows you're red phase when all you have to wear is PT gear and red phase gets smoked way more than everyone else!!
PS, what state is everyone from?

So you're doing RSP at Ellington then?

[DEMO]

The 111th is set to deploy out of PA sometime soon. When I went to RSP to fill out paper work I was told we might be staying overnight if they leave soon. I was fitted for a camo cap and was asked what boot size. My first RSP is July 12-13th.

[txwarrior]

So you're doing RSP at Ellington then?

No, at the Westheimer Armory

[budgie123]

as far as the name tapes and flags go, the ones i was issued got pretty beat up in basic, and you cant dx them... for 20 bucks you can order a four pack of new flags and name tapes he is a link ...
http://www.rangerjoes.com/uniform-accessories-personalized-items-c-700_706.html
its worth having, just dont bring them with you to bct...

[budgie123]

as far as the name tapes and flags go, the ones i was issued got pretty beat up in basic, and you cant dx them... for 20 bucks you can order a four pack of new flags and name tapes he is a link ...
http://www.rangerjoes.com/uniform-accessories-personalized-items-c-700_706.html
its worth having, just dont bring them with you to bct...

[budgie123]

as far as the name tapes and flags go, the ones i was issued got pretty beat up in basic, and you cant dx them... for 20 bucks you can order a four pack of new flags and name tapes he is a link ...
http://www.rangerjoes.com/uniform-accessories-personalized-items-c-700_706.html
its worth having, just dont bring them with you to bct...

[budgie123]

as far as the name tapes and flags go, the ones i was issued got pretty beat up in basic, and you cant dx them... for 20 bucks you can order a four pack of new flags and name tapes he is a link ...
http://www.rangerjoes.com/uniform-accessories-personalized-items-c-700_706.html
its worth having, just dont bring them with you to bct...

[budgie123]

sorry computer error::mad:

[DEMO]

We were issued PT Gear and ACU's on our first evening there. They didn't have 100% of everything that would fit everybody but it was pretty close. I'm missing PT shorts and my ACU cover. We also have to provide our own name tapes/patches for the next drill but I understand those cost under $10, so no sweat. Cadre was outstanding, they were there to help and very understanding, but they took no BS at all. You were taught something once and you had best remember it from there on out or you would be properly "corrected".


I know they should provide all but here is also a link to a site that has name tags.

http://www.1800nametape.com/

[SteveLord]

We were issued PT Gear and ACU's on our first evening there. They didn't have 100% of everything that would fit everybody but it was pretty close. I'm missing PT shorts and my ACU cover. We also have to provide our own name tapes/patches for the next drill but I understand those cost under $10, so no sweat. Cadre was outstanding, they were there to help and very understanding, but they took no BS at all. You were taught something once and you had best remember it from there on out or you would be properly "corrected".


I know they should provide all but here is also a link to a site that has name tags.

http://www.1800nametape.com/

That's the best site to get that stuff. Been ordering from them for years. You can even get your customized embroidered helmet bands too.

[Frisco]

I've been looking around for nametapes too, since they only gave me two with my uniform issue. I see that Ranger Joe's does a four pack for $10, but minimum shipping charge is $5.35. Still a pretty good deal though, considering the places local to me are wanting $4 to $5 apiece for them.