Overview
This Army Study Guide provides key information on Army programs, policies, weapon systems, leadership, uniform regulations, physical fitness, and essential soldier skills, serving as a comprehensive resource for board preparation and ongoing professional development.
Army Programs & Support Services
- ASAP (Army Substance Abuse Program) aims to enhance Soldier fitness, readiness, and deter substance abuse.
- ACS (Army Community Service) offers support services to Soldiers and families, primarily staffed by volunteers.
- ACES (Army Continuing Education System) supports educational opportunities for Soldiers and families.
- AER (Army Emergency Relief) provides financial aid without requiring contribution.
- Army Sexual Assault Prevention (SAPR) and EO (Equal Opportunity) programs enforce zero-tolerance policies for discrimination and assault, with training and reporting procedures required.
Soldier Development & Retention
- Reenlistment is prohibited for Soldiers in ASAP; bars to reenlistment reviewed quarterly.
- NCODP (Noncommissioned Officer Development Program) aims to develop competent NCO leaders.
- Weight Control Program (AR 600-9) enforces body fat standards; flagged Soldiers can't receive awards.
Safety & Sponsorship
- Army Safety Program (AR 385-10) prioritizes risk management and monthly equipment checks.
- Sponsorship Program (AR 600-8-8) assists new arrivals with integration.
Weapons & Marksmanship
- Weapons covered include M16/A2, M4, M9, M11, M136 AT4, M249, and more.
- Immediate action for stoppages: SPORTS (Slap, Pull, Observe, Release, Tap, Shoot).
- Proper clearing, function checks, and basic ballistics for each firearm.
Uniforms & Appearance
- AR 670-1 governs wear and appearance, including Class A, ACU, IPFU, and badges.
- Service ribbons and insignia placement detailed for male and female uniforms.
Leadership, Counseling & Conduct
- Leadership involves influencing, providing purpose, and developing subordinates.
- Counseling (FM 6-22) includes event, performance, and professional growth counseling.
- NCOs are accountable for training, welfare, and discipline of Soldiers.
- Code of Conduct outlines required behavior for POWs.
Physical Fitness & Training
- APFT requires a minimum of 60 points per event; alternate events for age 55+.
- Three conditioning phases: preparatory, conditioning, maintenance.
- Training principles: regularity, progression, overload, balance, specificity, variety, recovery.
Land Navigation & First Aid
- Basic map colors, contour lines, and north types; use of compass and azimuth.
- First aid priorities: stop bleeding, treat shock, prevent infection, perform CPR if needed.
Key Terms & Definitions
- ASAP — Army Substance Abuse Program
- AER — Army Emergency Relief
- NCODP — Noncommissioned Officer Development Program
- APFT — Army Physical Fitness Test
- DA Form 4856 — Counseling form
- SPORTS — Immediate action drill for weapon malfunction
- AR 670-1 — Uniform regulation
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review cited Army Regulations and Field Manuals for in-depth study.
- Practice weapon clearing and immediate action drills.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of counseling, EO/SAPR, and safety procedures.
- Complete required annual trainings and physical fitness assessments.