May 16, 2017, by Leslie Wyman – Boot camp is where our soldiers prepare physically and mentally. DS, or Drill Sergeants, do this to prepare troops for any situation that may come in combat. For strengthening, a lot of Marines become subject to extreme physical conditions. For mental strength, soldiers face a lot of stress from almost everything.
A lot of people say that Bootcamp has 20% Physical tests with 80% Mental hurdles. When trainees get to complete training, they get sorted out to different teams and units that need their expertise. Being a U.S. Servicemen is a tough job. It requires a lot of strength physically and mentally.
Once a Marine begins his or her deployment somewhere around the globe, they get to face numerous elements that may continuously batter them. Deserts, forests, marshes, and even people are part of these conditions. For those in war-torn places, a lot more harsh conditions await them.
This fact is the reason why boot camp is difficult. However, it is important that every individual is still human, and that they have limitations. Health is important, and the Military provides excellent facilities that cater to such needs. Rest is also crucial, as a person cannot function properly without any rest.
Most new cadets who sign up for boot camp worry about the length of the period of recuperation. People new to training should always understand that such hardships mentioned above are only ways to strengthen them for much greater dangers.
In the case of sleep, recruits rest on their double-decker bunks. “Lights out” means that all recruits should be sleeping. This period usually happens around 9 pm. Recruits should fully take advantage of this time by sleeping well. The next morning, cadets should be up at around 5 AM which is the start of their training.
The situation above is nothing compared to the situations our Marines face in real combat. Some sleep on the ground. Others make use of their trenches where they sleep on less than ideal conditions. Here are some other examples of how Marines creatively put up spaces to catch up on that needed shuteye.
Sleeping with Gasmasks
U.S. Marines of the MEU or Marine Expeditionary Unit wore gas masks or respirators while sleeping on the hot sand in deserts located in Iraq. Marines did this due to a gas attack alert.
Military Quarters
In particular bases, Marines get to enjoy their quarters. These rooms come with beds and Marines can personally customize it to their needs. Marines will even go as far as obtaining play stations and porn just to pass the time when no missions are available for them to partake.
First-time recruits should also avoid the notion that sleep is going to be less frequent whenever their deployment period is up. The higher chain of command values every man and woman available and their health is of top priority.
How can the army go to war when their soldiers lack rest and sleep?
Soldiers Resting on Their Vehicles
When night falls, the temperature drops so low that it becomes cold in the desert. These temperatures, cool the warm iron claddings of a tank. Marines see this as an opportunity for a good resting place. What they only need is some blankets, and they are ready to fall asleep.
Anywhere Else
As long as it is safe, Marines can practically fall asleep anywhere. They can even fall asleep underneath supply trucks. As long as a place is cool and shady, you’ll most likely find a soldier there, resting and keeping his body ready for the next mission.
Takeaway
Newly recruited Marines should not be afraid of getting less sleep when they arrive in their new units. The U.S. military considers each man and woman as assets when it comes to their operations. If sleeping conditions do get rough, boot camp has already trained Marines to cope with such difficulties.
Making improvised hammocks and cots are all done by Marines who want to get some rest in war-torn areas. What’s impressive is that Marines usually don’t sleep long. Typical naps only last 15-30 minutes, and after that, they get a burst of energy, ready to go on their next mission.
Author Bio
Author Bio: Leslie Wyman is a writer and a blogger that specializes in interior designing. She is also very interested in how certain professions affect people’s ability to sleep. Leslie is also particular in choosing the best beds and materials conducive to sleep. During her free time, Leslie loves reading about current world issues.