Basic Training

Week Two – Yellow Phase


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 Two Expectations: Yellow Phase

Your Trainee has just completed their first week of Army Basic Combat Training.  After this week, they will move 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 continue with some more time in the class room and eventually begin exploring outside of the company area and complete a series of training events designed to challenge them mentally and physically.

Week two will continue to be an exhausting week for your Trainee.  As they are still getting accustomed to their new surroundings and new found friends.  This week they will be introduced to their weapon and take on their first Foot March. Hopefully you have gotten the chance to speak with them on their Sunday call. Trainees are allotted time to make phone calls home on Sundays, but this is a privilege, it can be taken away for platoon infractions.

There are Four Phases to Army Basic Training that your Trainee will go through on their quest to earn the prestigious title of American Soldier.

Yellow Phase:  Weeks 1-2

Red Phase:  Weeks 3-4

White Phase:  Weeks 5-7

Blue Phase:  Weeks 8-10

Continued Learning

During their classroom time this week they will take on several subjects to begin their mastery of.  They will be introduced the Army’s Sexual Harassment/Assault Prevention Program, Financial Managemnt, Risk Management, while also receiving an introduction into the Army’s Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F) Program.

The Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F) System is the Army’s primary investment in Soldier readiness and lethality, optimal physical and non-physical performance, reduced injury rates, improved rehabilitation after injury, and increased overall effectiveness of the Total Army.  H2F is broken down into five pillars that are prioritized on Mental, Physical, Sleep, Nutritional and Spiritual Readiness.

Foot March

The 3-mile foot march is a significant milestone designed to build endurance, resilience, and camaraderie among Trainees. This march is not merely a physical challenge but a mental one, testing the limits of each Trainee’s determination and grit. Trainees carry their gear, typically including a rucksack weighing between 35 to 50 pounds, which simulates the load they might carry during actual missions. The march usually takes place in various terrains, adding to the difficulty and realism of the training. Despite the rigorous nature of the march, it serves as a powerful bonding experience, where Trainees encourage and support each other, fostering a sense of unity and teamwork. Completing the 3-mile foot march instills a deep sense of accomplishment and confidence, marking a crucial step in their journey to becoming disciplined, physically fit, and mission-ready Soldiers.

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. In your letter this week, ask them how they did onthe Foot March and see if they are ready to get outside for some exciting challenges that are on the horizon for next week.

Although Sandboxx letters arrive the next day with return stationery, a pre-addressed envelope, the return postage paid, photos, and a gift card feature, don’t feel like you have to use Sandboxx to send letters. We encourage handwritten letters and cards – these are so important.

The Making of Your Soldier

Stay tuned for more insights into Week Three and beyond. Next week they will tackle the Confidence Course, the Team Development Course, and the always exciting Warrior Tower.  Be sure to wish them luck. Follow us on social media for the latest updates, letter ideas, and more.

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 — just ask for Kris, and myself or another teammate will get back to you as soon as we can.

Hooah!

SGM Kris Broadus, U.S. Army (Ret)