Intro
Unlock the elite world of US Army Machine Gunners. Discover 7 proven ways to join their ranks, from meeting basic requirements to advanced combat training. Master the M249 SAW and M240 machine guns, develop marksmanship skills, and learn tactical maneuvers. Rise through the ranks and become a respected Machine Gunner in the US Army.
As a member of the US Army, becoming a machine gunner is a highly respected and sought-after role. Machine gunners play a crucial part in providing suppressive fire and defending their fellow soldiers in combat situations. If you're interested in pursuing this challenging and rewarding career path, here are 7 ways to become a US Army machine gunner:
Meet the Basic Requirements
Before you can start your journey to becoming a machine gunner, you need to meet the basic requirements for joining the US Army. This includes being a US citizen, being between the ages of 17 and 35, and meeting the Army's physical fitness standards. You'll also need to score well on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test and have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Choose the Right Military Occupational Specialty (MOS)
To become a machine gunner, you'll need to choose the right Military Occupational Specialty (MOS). The most relevant MOS for machine gunners is 11B, Infantryman. However, you can also consider other MOS's such as 11C, Indirect Fire Infantryman, or 13B, Cannon Crewmember.
Complete Basic Combat Training (BCT)
Once you've enlisted and chosen your MOS, you'll need to complete Basic Combat Training (BCT). BCT is a 10-week training program that teaches you the fundamental skills you need to become a soldier. You'll learn about first aid, map reading, and combat techniques, among other things.
Attend Advanced Individual Training (AIT)
After completing BCT, you'll attend Advanced Individual Training (AIT) for your specific MOS. As an infantryman, you'll attend 14 weeks of training at the Infantry School at Fort Benning, Georgia. You'll learn about infantry tactics, first aid, and how to use various weapons systems.
Get Trained on Machine Guns
To become a machine gunner, you'll need to get trained on machine guns. You'll learn about the different types of machine guns, how to use them, and how to maintain them. You'll also learn about the tactics and techniques for using machine guns in combat situations.
Gain Combat Experience
To become a skilled machine gunner, you'll need to gain combat experience. You'll need to deploy to a combat zone and participate in actual combat operations. This will give you the opportunity to use your skills in real-world situations and gain valuable experience.
Stay Trained and Certified
Finally, to become a skilled machine gunner, you'll need to stay trained and certified. You'll need to complete regular training exercises and certifications to stay up-to-date on the latest tactics and techniques. You'll also need to maintain your physical fitness and marksmanship skills.
Gallery of US Army Machine Gunners
US Army Machine Gunners
What is the role of a machine gunner in the US Army?
+A machine gunner is a soldier who operates and maintains machine guns in combat situations. They provide suppressive fire and defend their fellow soldiers.
What type of training do machine gunners receive?
+Machine gunners receive training on machine guns, tactics, and techniques for using machine guns in combat situations. They also receive training on first aid, map reading, and combat techniques.
What are the requirements for becoming a machine gunner in the US Army?
+To become a machine gunner, you need to meet the basic requirements for joining the US Army, choose the right MOS, complete BCT and AIT, get trained on machine guns, gain combat experience, and stay trained and certified.
We hope this article has provided you with valuable information on how to become a US Army machine gunner. If you have any further questions or comments, please don't hesitate to reach out. Remember to stay trained and certified, and always keep your skills sharp.