Day 35

Day 30 of BTC

     Today was not too bad of a day, but still exhausting. We had a later start to the day, with wake up at 0515 and first formation at 0540. I'm assuming it was because it was so cold. PT was a muscle strengthening day instead of a run day. My knees have still been sore and swollen, but they were better today. I was still okay with not running. I'm still really struggling with my pushups, so I worry about the PT test on Saturday. I hope I can manage more than one.
     We then ate a Hot-A breakfast. I only ate some of it. My appetite is minimal with the food we get over and over again so I have to force myself to eat. We then changed into ACU's and full battle rattle and marched across the street to the EST. Our platoon did concurrent training first, while 4th platoon did the simulator. We did ready up drills, which are meant to train us so we don't accidentally shoot anyone tomorrow at the range. The DS teaching us kept yelling at us for not staying in a straight line as we moved forward, but the meter signs were not even, so it was a little difficult. We were all getting frustrated, so it was a relief to have our turn in the simulator. We basically did the same drills we've done before, but with full gear on. We zeroed our weapons, the shot singles and multiples. My stupid EyePro was blurry so I really struggled to see. I grouped really well, and shot 27/40 on the singles, but I only hit 21/40 on the multiples which was a no-go.
     We then marched back for another Hot-A and then went to the classroom to learn the basics of the M-4 and some of the attachment we'll be using. We learned how to use a sight, IF laser, and our Night Optical Device (NOD) which attaches to our helmets. It was actually really fun and I'm excited to be learning the M-4. We'll be shooting with all of this stuff tomorrow night on our first night shoot.
     We then marched to the DFAC for chow, which was a nice break from the Hot-A's, and then had platoon time. Our DS was tied up getting ready for tomorrow since it's his duty week, but our PG did a good job of keeping us busy.
     We then helped our DS finish gathering stuff for tomorrow so our personal time was out short and we didn't have a mail call. Hydration Formation was quick and then it was straight to bed. Tomorrow will be an Ability Group run, and I'm thinking of moving up to the "B2" group. Hopefully, my body cooperates.