Hooah!! Welcome back to your Week Two training update—and yes, let’s talk about that word: Hooah! In the Army, Hooah is more than just a word—it’s a mindset. It means “Yes!”, “I got this!”, “Let’s go!”, and “I’m all in!” It’s the battle cry of confidence, grit, and pride—and trust me, your Trainee is shouting it with every step they take! Get ready, because it’s a word you’ll be hearing a lot from now on!
I know these past few weeks may have felt long and uncertain, but take heart—your Trainee is rising to the occasion and being shaped into something incredible. They’re in great hands, surrounded by professionals who are committed to building strong, capable Soldiers. And guess what? Time is going to fly!
Week 2 Expectations: Red Phase
Your Trainee has just completed their first week of Army Basic Combat Training. They have successfully moved into the second phase of BCT, the Red Phase. Last week they spent a lot of time learning and getting acclimated to Army life. By now they are getting accustomed to the early mornings and long days. This week they will begin exploring outside of the company area and complete a series of training events designed to challenge them mentally and physically.
Week two will be a very busy and exciting time for your Trainee. They will conduct their first diagnostic Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT), the Team Development Course, the Victory Tower, and the always exciting Confidence Chamber, also known as the Gas Chamber.
Confidence Chamber
First up this week is one of the most anticipated combat scenarios of their time at Fort Jackson, the Confidence Chamber (also known as the gas chamber). This is their first introduction to Chemical, Biological, Radioactive, and Nuclear (CBRN) training. They will learn how to properly wear the M50 Protective Mask (also known as Gas Mask) as well as employ a variety of cleaning supplies specifically designed to treat contamination.
The final practical exercise of this training event is the gas chamber where your trainee will learn to trust in their equipment. Don’t be alarmed, this is a controlled environment! They will put on their gas mask, and enter a room filled with harmless but very uncomfortable tear gas. While they are wearing their mask, they will be unaffected by the teargas, but they will proceed to remove their mask and experience the effects of tear gas briefly before exiting the chamber. This experience helps them understand how to maintain their composure and remain focused on what needs to be done even when they are under distress.
Team Development Course
The Team Development Course is where the Army spirit of “One Team, One Fight” truly comes to life! This high-energy, hands-on course challenges Trainees to solve complex problems and complete physical obstacles—together. Each station presents a new mission: maybe it’s moving a “wounded” Soldier across a ravine, navigating a maze of ropes and planks, or transporting equipment over a wall without touching the ground. It’s not about strength alone—it’s about strategy, communication, leadership, and trust. There’s nothing like watching a group of strangers turn into a unified, mission-driven team right before your eyes.
What makes the Team Development Course so powerful is that it’s a turning point. For many Trainees, this is where bonds are formed, leaders emerge, and confidence skyrockets—not just in themselves, but in each other. Laughter, frustration, problem-solving, and fist bumps are all part of the experience. By the time they finish the TDC, your Trainee isn’t just working with their platoon—they’re fighting for them. This course isn’t just training; it’s the heartbeat of what makes Soldiers unstoppable as a team.
VICTORY TOWER
Victory Tower at Fort Jackson is one of the most iconic and adrenaline-pumping experiences in Army Basic Training—a true rite of passage! Towering over the training grounds, this massive structure is where fear meets courage, and confidence is built one step at a time. As Trainees approach the base of the tower, hearts are racing and palms are sweaty, but the energy is electric. They’ll face obstacles like rope climbs, cargo nets, and the legendary rappel wall, where they must descend a vertical drop with nothing but a rope, their gear, and their grit. For many, it’s the first time they’ve ever done anything like it—and they come away transformed.
The best part about Victory Tower isn’t just the physical challenge—it’s the moment Trainees realize they can do hard things. With Drill Sergeants coaching and battle buddies cheering them on, they overcome fear, doubt, and hesitation to conquer every obstacle. When they touch the ground after that rappel or swing across the rope bridge, they’re not just physically stronger—they’re mentally tougher and filled with pride. Victory Tower isn’t just an obstacle; it’s a symbol of growth, courage, and the first of many victories to come in their Army journey.
LETTERS FROM HOME = MORALE
Your words matter. Letters from home are fuel for the fight—they lift spirits, inspire grit, and remind your Trainee they are never alone. A few kind words from you can make all the difference. If you’re not sure what to say, start with encouragement, share some updates from home, or ask about what they’re learning.
Sandboxx makes letter writing easy—with next-day delivery, return stationery, pre-addressed envelopes, photos, and even gift card options. But whether you use Sandboxx or send a handwritten card, your support means everything. Every letter is a lifeline.
THE MAKING OF YOUR SOLDIER
Stay tuned for more insights into Week Three and beyond. Follow us on social media for the latest updates, letter ideas, and more. Next week your Trainee will take on the Hammer, the first Field Training Excercise and the first night they will spend out in the field.
That’s a brief look at the intense but rewarding journey your Trainee is on. Let’s keep supporting them every step of the way!
You can always find me via chat in the Sandboxx app or happiness@sandboxx.us. Ask for Kris and another teammate, or I will reply soon.
Hooah!
SGM Kris Broadus, U.S. Army (Ret)