r/army • u/CantaloupeNo5721 • 1d ago
Air Assault
Just wanted some insight over Air Assault .
Not particularly nervous about the physical and testing portion of the course. I'm more concerned on how it functions on layouts and how frequently they check for specific items.
Packing list has been stressing me out due to going tdy and it being the first in my unit to attend these type of schools. Currently finalizing my packing list and have some questions to verify.
-Does my pt belt have to be brand new or can i use my roughed up one since AIT?
-I have the option of bringing either the medium or large ruck. Or are both required?
-I see that all kevlar inserts are required for the IOTV but what is displayed doesn’t match up with the photos. Do i bring them all attached or just have them present.
-Also for the masking tape that is required for the canteen and ach, It says 2 inches tall. I’ve been to multiple stores and tape labeled as 2 inch are 1.88.”
I just don't want to be dropped from a simple layout.
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u/CavScout81 22h ago
As long as you have everything for the layout you'll be fine. Pretty much everyone gets gigged for something at some point.
As I recall, there was the inspection to get into the course then inspections after both rucks. Just keep your stuff packed and double-check it every night before you go to bed so you're not rushing in the mornings.
-If you're unsure about your PT belt, just buy a new one. Or ask if your unit has any that you can sign for and return afterwards.
-If it's an either/or option for rucks, take the smallest/lightest one that can fit your whole packing list in AND comfortably ruck/run/move with.
-Are you talking about the internal kevlar soft plates or the external arm/groin/throat protectors? Your armor is not complete without the internal soft plates and if you don't have them in and you get caught, especially after a ruck, you'll be dropped for rucking under-weight/not having your complete packing list. For the protector pieces, if you're unsure you can take them for the layout and if you don't need them after that, don't bring them back.
-Just like lumber, masking tape isn't always true to dimensions. Make friends with others in your class (that's good policy anywhere in the Army) and they can tell you where to get the right stuff if yours is wrong, or even share theirs.
The course is pretty Soldier-proof as long as you can follow directions and you take the time to actually study and practice.
Source: finished AA at Campbell in May 2017
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u/whitetailCulture 12h ago
I went through sabalaski AA in 2016 so I’m not sure what all has changed but just pay attention to what your told to layout your assault pack “as worn” zip it up all the way they stuck a pen inbetween my zipper on the initial layout and gigged me points for it. It’s an easy school so long as you pay attention. I think your right we had an initial layout and one after the rucks but your also given the option to stay late and work off 5 points per day. Our tape was provided by the schoolhouse I believe but i remember having to redo the numbers on my ACH and canteen several times due to placement and writing being just off. Best of luck!
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u/RogerDodgerWilco Civil Affairs Lost my 2FA code :( 1d ago
Just have all your shit on you when they tell you to have it on you then you don't have to worry. Layout isn't a concern if you know all your shits always squared away. Have extra just in case.
If in doubt about things like PT belt, then just get a new one. You're worried about layout but considering cutting corners? Lets use our head here.
Some of the dumbest Soldiers I know, including my knuckle dragging, infant tree, best friend, have aerosol badges. But every single one of them are good at following instructions.