Inside this issue:

Land Navigation 1

February Labs 2

OPAT 3

Mentorship Night 3

Upcoming Events 3

Wildcat battalion newsletter

JANUARY/FEBURARY 2019

Land Navigation at Fort Riley

Land Navigation is a critical skill that Cadets will need to master in ROTC and

throughout their military career. This includes the ability to read maps and use a

compass and protractor to traverse through rough terrain and reach target

destinations. This skill will be assessed during Cadet Summer Training (CST) where

Cadets will be expected to find four of six points on a land navigation course and

pass a written exam.

Cadets had the opportunity to practice this skill as the Battalion traveled to Fort Riley

on February 2nd. Cadets arrived at 0730 where they conducted a pace count and a

compass check. Following a map and safety brief, Cadets began the lanes with 3

hours to find three out of the five points.

MSI and MSII Cadets used their basic knowledge of map-reading with their battle

buddy, map, compass, and protractor to reach all five points. MSIII Cadets worked

individually to build confidence in their ability and prepare for CST. MSIV Cadets

maintained water points and walked lanes to make sure all Cadets returned safely.

Page 2 WILDCAT BATTALION NEWSLETTER

January and February Labs

As we progress through the school year, Cadets continue to develop confidence, awareness,

and the ability to solve problems while applying troop leading procedures and executing platoon

level tactics. Labs are designed to create the building blocks of a strong foundation in tactical

knowledge. This month Cadets received training and executed practical exercises in patrol base

operations, react to contact, and platoon ambush.

MSIII Cadets attending Advanced Camp will be assessed on their leadership attributes and be-

haviors, as well as tactical competence. The labs provide the foundation needed to continually

develop these skills. Through these labs, MSI’s and II’s will build upon their knowledge as well

so that they feel tactically confident when leading these labs as MSIII’s.

Occupation Physical Assessment Test (OPAT)

Page 3 WILDCAT BATTALION NEWSLETTER

This month the Wildcat Battalion held a mentorship night in the Military Science building.

Cadets were divided by major and paired up with MSIV’s who have the same majors to re-

ceive guidance on classes and how to navigate college. After MS I’s, II’s and III’s met with

their mentors, they grabbed some food and beverages and watched

movies.

Prior to commissioning, MSIII Cadets are required to take the Occupational Physical

Assessment Test (OPAT). This test is used to assess an individual's physical capabilities

to engage in physically demanding Soldier tasks. The OPAT measures upper and lower

body power, lower body strength and aerobic endurance. The test consists of a standing

long jump, a seated power throw, the strength deadlift and an interval aerobic run.

Mentorship Night

Upcoming Events:

• CFTX

• Ranger Buddy

• Norwegian Foot March

• RECONDO FTX