May 1996 - We were the second plebe details, which means we handled the second half of the plebes' (neophytes) summer camp/ beast barracks. Our class was divided into two groups, one on orientation tour while the other half was left in PMA to handle their duties in the beast barracks. I can't say that it was easier being the second plebe detail, but at least the plebes were already taught the basics. Our tasks then as yearlings (thirdclassmen or second years) would be assisting our squad leaders (secondclassmen) in polishing what the plebes learned and teaching them the things they still need to learn as plebes.
Our roles as yearlings were harder than we thought it to be. We were still the lowest ranking in our main barracks, thus, we were still tasked to do the routine housekeeping and guard duties while being expected to have the highest standard among cadets with regards to discipline, uniforms, posture, punctuality and overall snappiness.
We had some endurance exercises like roadruns with our plebes, the thing was, we need to show them that were tougher and there's no excuse for bogging down. We served as their role models as well as their mentors, there's no room for weaknesses. And besides, our actions were still scrutinized by our upperclassmen, so there's no room for mistakes either.
We also had two foot marches, one to Camp 6 and the other one was to Mt. Kabuyaw or Cabuyao, and it's the second time for our class. The difference now, was we were already handling a leadership responsibility, being the assistant squad leaders. We were partly responsible to the safety and overall welfare of our squad. We also see to it that the orders of our squad was performed or executed by the squad members.
But the summer camp wasn't just for the plebes familiarization of the cadets' practices and traditions. Our class also had our knowledge and skill enhancement like the marksmanship and weapon's familiarization training and actual application of theories and strategies through war games using M.I.L.E.S. (multiple integrated laser engagement system). And man, was it a FUN way to learn things!!!
Things were really getting more challenging day by day, that time... all in His glory, as always. Yahweh bless.
Recent Related Post: Navy, Army Or Air Force
We also had two foot marches, one to Camp 6 and the other one was to Mt. Kabuyaw or Cabuyao, and it's the second time for our class. The difference now, was we were already handling a leadership responsibility, being the assistant squad leaders. We were partly responsible to the safety and overall welfare of our squad. We also see to it that the orders of our squad was performed or executed by the squad members.
 |
| Resting @ Camp 6, Baguio City |
 |
| A Trail To Mt. Cabuyao... |
 |
| Our squad. |
Things were really getting more challenging day by day, that time... all in His glory, as always. Yahweh bless.
Recent Related Post: Navy, Army Or Air Force
Trekking up to Mt. Cabuyao is already challenging enough.To do it with all of those equipment...all I can say is YIKES!
ReplyDeleteIt must be tough spending those years as a cadet. I admire your perseverance and discipline.
ReplyDeleteSuch a wonderful experience you have there in your PMA years. Summer Camp is FUN, especially if you have your great buddies with you.
ReplyDeleteWow! Even years after you've graduated from PMA, you still remember those days as if it happened yesterday. ^_^
ReplyDeleteHats off to the present heroes who are willing to serve our country!
ReplyDeleteI recall during my PMT days, Even I had clearly see the stars I should look tough,keep my composure, should not be look like weak in front of the neophytes.
ReplyDeleteI've about it and I also met a PMA'er a long time ago at meron nga daw hierarchy sa PMA. Of cource the yearling days was harder but it gets better as you go up the rank.=)
ReplyDeleteWow such a great experience to be in the PMA.. would love to read your previous and future posts about your experiences while in the academy.. :)
ReplyDeleteHirap pala pinagdaanan nyo Sir. Parang Spartan training.
ReplyDeleteWow, you're in PMA. I know your trainings are hard but you find it fun at the same time. It only shows you love what you do. :)
ReplyDeleteI remember shared stories from my Kuya, like the one that you've just narrated. He was in the Air Force in Texas back in the day. He also felt so much of the responsibilities of being tasked as the leader. Like you, he felt the weight but perserved even more.
ReplyDeletewhoa.Kudos, to you sir. I always admire your posts and I can see that you've been posting military related articles and I like that you've put it in details. :) It speaks more of who you really are and Yahweh bless .
ReplyDeleteWow! Nice photos! :-) I would also agree, it's really FUN to learn new things especially if you love those things.
ReplyDeleteIf you we're able to surpassed all those hardships in your trainings I bet it will be easy for you to cope up when its time for you to be assigned in the real battle.
ReplyDeleteThe memories of yesterday (hardships and sufferings) sabi nga nila, is the memory to cherish for a long time. The training is known to be hard, bow down to you sir.
ReplyDeleteaw! You're a PMAer, all hail! only a few are persevered and determined enough to finish such!
ReplyDeleteThat's classic! It's so nice to look back at those times that we are still building up ourselves.
ReplyDelete